Overcoming Fear

Quoted from Zig Ziglar

Fear is the dark room where negatives are developed

Fear has been correctly identified with the acrostic False Evidence Appearing Real. The truth is that if we think something is to be feared, that perception becomes the cruelest form of reality.

A second-grade boy was overheard saying, "It's easy to be brave when you're not scared." By the same token, it's easy to talk about how to overcome fear when you have little to be afraid of. Fear is certainly real for some people and all of us face a fear of something - maybe it's  poverty, divorce, rejection, death, failure, speaking in public, or being laughed at.

How do we overcome fear? First, we must learn to examine our fears. Giving a speech is the number one fear in our country, according to Reader's Digest. (It's also a tremendous confidence-builder.) If that's your fear, ask yourself a few questions:

1) Why am I afraid to make a speech?
2) Is it because I'am afraid of being rejected?
3) If so, do I think I'll be rejected?
4) Do I believe what I'm about to say?
5) Is my speech worth giving?
6) Am I proud of the comments I'm about to make?

As you ask yourself these questions, the fear will begin to subside. It subsides because you have explored your subconscious mind with your questions and flushed out some of your fears.

My research indicates that only three people have died while making a speech. Since twelve billion people have lived and only three of them died making a speech, I'd say it's fairly safe thing to do. If you're a little nervous, consider this: You could lead a mule into a crowded room and he would be so calm that he would almost go to sleep standing up. A thoroughbred in the same situation would be as nervous as a cat. If you're a little nervous, just be grateful you're a thoroughbred - not a mule. So face those inner feelings, stand up, and speak with confidence.

Unquote.

If some adults have difficulty facing their fears, it will be the same for children.
Parents, if you notice that your child is facing some fears, instead of just telling him to be brave and faced it, try to understand their fears. Ask him to share with you what is it that he actually fear. Explore it with them. Encourage them to try out different ways to overcome it, while letting them know that you are supporting them.