4 Simple ways to build confidence and destroy fear
I have just started reading a great book. It's called The Magic of Thinking Big by David Schwartz. It has really opened my eyes to how, we as humans, are pre-programed to look for the negative in situations and make excuses when it comes to taking risk. We have to face fear and push through it and ultimately it will lead to a better more fulfilling life. Great risk leads to great reward.
It is important to note that fear is real and we must recognize it exists before we can conquer it. The old musings that state that fear is only in our heads it incorrect because think about a situation when you feel fear (public speaking, approaching a difficult situation, conflict, advertising your business) the emotions you feel are very much real. It is important to recognize that and be aware of it. Building confidence and overcoming fear are important for personal growth and success.
Here are 4 Simple ways you can start to build confidence and tackle fear;
1) Action cures fear - Indecision, postponement, on the other hand, fertilize fear.
Isolate your fear. Determine exactly what you are afraid of.
Then take action. There is some kind of action for any kind of fear.
Make sure to take small steps to start. If you are afraid of public speaking why not push yourself to ask a question in the next team meeting?
2) Think Positive - make a huge effort to have positive thoughts in your memory bank.
Positive, successful people specialize in putting happy thoughts in their memory bank. What kind of performance would your car deliver if every morning before work you scooped up a handful of dirt and put it in your engine? The engine would soon be a mess, unable to do what you want it to do. Negative, unpleasant thoughts deposited in your mind affect you in the same way. Don't let negative thoughts become mental monsters. Tackle your mental monsters through meditation.
3) Practice Speaking up: Your voice matters and the more you speak up, the more you add to your confidence - it's a confidence building vitamin. Make it a rule to speak up at every open meeting you attend. Speak up, say something voluntarily at every business conference, meeting & community forum you attend. Make no exception.
4) Practice self-compassion and positive self-talk: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Embrace self-compassion by acknowledging that fear and self-doubt are natural emotions. Replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations and encouragement. Remind yourself of your strengths, achievements, and past successes to boost your confidence.
Take Action. Think Positive. Speak up and practice self compassion.
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