This is me eight years ago when I first held a python snake.
Facing fears and eliminating unknown biases on this Puerto Vallarta vacation was not something I had planned, but it’s one of the things I remember.
I had fears on top of worries.
I had anxiety about how I would respond when I held the snake. I also had incorrect assumptions about the snake: how it would feel, react, etc.
Yet, I didn’t hesitate when it was my turn. I committed. No one else with me would do it. I was on my own with this one!
As it turned out, it was a great experience. The snake was surprisingly soft! And my encounter was much shorter than I would have liked. (That said, I was glad they took the snake for a break.)
Interestingly, my anxiety about how I might react was worse than how I felt when I actually did the thing.
I’ve learned that’s true of a lot of fears. We let our fears grow so big that we stop taking chances. We make our lives smaller and smaller because of what might happen.
Don’t let that be you.
Don’t make your world smaller by thinking of all the scary or difficult things you can make up.
Our fears are often LIES.
Steps You Can Take to Work Through Your Anxieties, Fears, and Unknown Biases
Here are some quick tips for working through your anxieties, fears, and unknown biases:
- GET CLEAR about the life you want to create. I mean so clearly that you can see it like watching a movie.
- Identify the actions you currently avoid that will help you create that life.
- Identify the fears or beliefs you have associated with the actions you are avoiding.
- Start facing your fears and false beliefs. This looks different for each person. It’s ok to start small if you’d like. The important thing is to claim what you want to create and begin to take aligned actions.
- Seek support from a friend, accountability partner, counselor, mentor, or coach. When you talk to someone, you feel less alone, which often makes a big difference in strengthening your courage.
- Practice relaxation techniques. There are many to choose from that you can find on YouTube and mobile apps.
- Practice healthy brain habits. Ensure you sleep well, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly. These things will help you feel better physically and mentally, which can help you cope with fear and anxiety.
And if you’d like support with this, let me know. I’ve been called an obstacle buster by more than one person, and I’d love to talk about the life you want to create and how I might help you make it happen.
Cheering for you.
Until we talk again,
Live Fully — Love Openly — Laugh Often — Leverage Your Brilliance — Connect Authentically — Get Your Message Out — Serve with Impact — Prosper Everyday
Resources
The Truth About Impostor Syndrome and How to Overcome It
How to Improve Your Neuroplasticity for Business Growth
5 Debilitating Types of Imposter Syndrome That Trap Your Success (Podcast Interview)
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