Everyone suffers from fear at some point in their lives, but fear can come in so many different forms and it impacts those affected and anyone close in so many ways. I’ve seen first hand how debilitating it can be for some and although I’ve never suffered from excessive fear/anxiety, I wanted to talk about how it’s played its part in my life.
I’ve begun to realise that my fear of failing has definitely led to some anxiety, albeit many people that know me may find this hard to believe. Outwardly, on a day to day level I do not see myself as an anxious person, but where I sometimes struggle is with the fear/worry of not achieving what I set out to do. This can leave me in limbo, subsequently putting decisions on hold, or failing to make them at all. I think it’s important to be open about these types of issues, as these types of feelings will resonate with a lot of people. Don’t get me wrong this isn’t small everyday decisions, but the kind that influences bigger changes in my life, the type of decisions that I associate with having feedback/opinions from others.
The opinions of those close to me can often hinder my decision-making, and as I’ve got older I tell myself more frequently not to worry about what other people think and focus more on the opportunities ahead, even if I’m taking a different course in my life, perhaps which appears to go against the grain.
I realise I am fortunate to have options and the ability to make decisions and not have change forced upon me, so I should seize opportunities more frequently and worry less, which is obviously easier said than done!
So after much thought and deliberation, I have finally decided to enrol on a Life Coaching Diploma course. For me, this is a massive decision and although I know it will be good for me, the fear of failing or not living up to what others think has created a massive cloud of doubt.
Although I have no idea where this will lead, but I am really thankful that I have a choice and as with many of the decisions I have made in the past, taking the step has been the hardest part and those opportunities and experiences that have followed have made me the person I am.
If I could give my younger self some advice I would say, trust your heart and don’t listen to the doubters, mickey takers, or cynics, after all, life is nothing but an adventure!
