Fear...how to tackle..???

Fear of one’s self is demonstrated in several ways. You can experience
shyness, diffidence, bashfulness, timidity and a need of “self confidence”.
Here are some factors that contribute to one’s fear:

1. When we feel separated, fear increases. A fact is that one does not
fear those he is familiar with (people and surroundings). Fear arises
when there is a certain feeling of estrangement, which exhibits overall
sense or impression of suspicion.

2. Attachment to individuals as well as material things associated with
one’s security cause one to fear that one might loose them, so one will
do everything in order to protect one’s relationships, possessions or his
self-image.

3. Strange surroundings and unfamiliar people bring about fear.
Unfamiliar situations threat one’s security and usually one reacts with
extreme caution and at times, defensive behavior.
4. One’s negative memory of past experiences where one had either
suffered or witnessed loss, harm or death aggravates fear. The
subconscious retains memories of the past and at certain circumstances,
these are ignited.
5. Imagination at times can create or invent images of trouble, suffering
or pain outside physical truth or reality. Note that Imagination is never
negative, however when misused and abused, it can bring so much fear
in oneself.
Combat fear by developing self-confidence. Here are few guidelines:
1. Emphasize your strengths. Focus on what it is that you are capable
of achieving and praise yourself for your strength and your struggle
than focusing on the results. Beginning on a foundation of things that
you are capable rather than what should you be doing will help you live
and work within your limitations.

2. Talk to yourself. Examine yourself and practice how to handle
situations as well as counter negative ones. Know when to stop when
you catch yourself in a negative assumption.

For instance, when you find yourself demanding perfection, tell yourself
that everything can not result perfectly. This will allow you to believe in
yourself at the same time that you are striving to get better.

3. Evaluate yourself. Practice how to independently evaluate yourself.
This will let you avoid the persistent sense of confusion that results
when you are relying completely on the opinions and judgment of
others.

4. Take those risks. When you face and accept experiences as
instruments for learning than possibilities to lose or win, new
opportunities can be unlocked and this can develop your self awareness
and acceptance.

Remember, self-confidence can be developed, not inherited; and fear
can be overcome because you have the trust and the faith in yourself to
do so.