Fearless Livingby Joyce Shafer

Fear is natural and necessary. Why? It helps keep us safe. But, fear is supposed to protect us from danger, not keep us from living fulfilling lives.

My Life Coach training was through iPEC (Institute for Professional Empowerment Coaching). Bruce Schneider, founder, presented keys to success in a teleclass. The last key was Fearlessness. He explained fearlessness does not eliminate fear, but takes action regardless of it. He said, “Fearlessness allows us to see all things as possible.”
How might it impact your life if you dreamed big and took steps to make your dream your reality — in spite of any fear about making mistakes or looking foolish? If you make a mistake, so what! Have you made mistakes before now? Did you survive? Did you learn from them? Did you grow?

Many times, we live lives of stagnation because we are afraid. Afraid to step out of the box. Afraid to stretch ourselves and reach for a “star.” Afraid of embarrassment. Afraid we aren’t good enough, deserving enough. Afraid of failure, of success. What fear holds you back from living the life you want? How’s that working for you? I thought so.
We let fear impose itself on our lives in many ways. What do you allow because you are afraid to speak up or take right action on? Think about going to an interview? What if your focus is on interviewing the job as well as being interviewed? How would that affect your attitude about it?

Someone once asked me about my move to New York. I shared my story. To me, it was just what happened. I was genuinely surprised when he said, “You moved here with no job, no prospects, and little cash? And at your age?! (No, I didn’t punch him.) That was truly courageous. I don’t know that I could do that.” I’d never thought of it like that. I’d just trusted my intuition and took the leap. If I could do that, why can’t I do whatever I choose to create the life I want? You’ve done something courageous. I’m certain of it.

Fear is ever-present; but, we can choose to use it as an energetic motivator. A friend of mine said that whenever she is afraid to do something — especially speak in public — she makes certain she does it so it doesn’t hold her back. Another friend of mine (I have incredible friends) said she believes the only thing to fear is regret. This is not only a powerful statement, but a wise one.

On a sticky-note, I wrote “What would fearlessness do?” I move it from day to day in my calendar to remind myself to take part in life and challenges so I create the life I want. Every one of us is an infinite field of potential. We really are limited only by what we think, believe, and choose.

The next time a fear threatens to keep you from doing something (and remember, I’m not talking about dangerous actions), ask yourself, “What would I do if I was fearless?” Fearless living is authentic living. It’s being who you are in every moment. You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be you. What would your life look like if you fearlessly let your light shine?

Shine on! The world needs more light.


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