Our minds are influential, and moving into fear is a common experience we can each look at and change.

Everyone has fears; it is a natural part of being human. Fear can protect us from harm by sending a rush of adrenaline to help us physically deal with potential danger. But there are times when fear may keep us from participating fully in life. Once we realize that fear is a state of mind, we can choose to face our fears, change our minds, and create the life we want to live.

Our minds are powerful tools to be used by our higher selves, like computers, storing and using data to make certain connections between thought and response. We can observe these and choose differently. No matter where the fear came from, we can create new relationships by choosing new ideas. When our souls and minds are in alignment, we make a unique experience of reality. This journey requires many small steps, as well as patience and courage through the process. Here’s an example: You decide to overcome your fear of driving on the freeway. Your plan of action starts with examining your thoughts and finding a new way of seeing the situation. When you’re ready, you enlist a calm companion to support you as you take the first step of merging into the slow lane and using the first exit. Your heart may be racing, but the accomplishment will boost your confidence. Repeat this until you are comfortable, with or without help, and then drive one exit further. When you are ready, you can try driving in the middle lane for more extended periods each time until you find yourself going where you want to go. This gradual process is similar to conquering any fear, but if you find it overwhelming, you can always seek the help of a professional.

You may think that you are the only one with a particular fear, that nobody else could be scared of ordinary things such as water, heights, public speaking, or flying. These types of worries are prevalent, and you can have great success overcoming them. Remember, it is not the absence of anxiety but the courage to take action anyway that determines success. When we learn to face our fears, we learn to observe our thoughts and feelings without being ruled by them. Instead, we choose how to shape the lives we want.