I don't watch much television, but the other day I decided to plop my butt down on the couch and relax for a few moments. I flipped on the tube and started channel surfacing when I came across Dr. Phil's show. The show was about a woman who has over 30 phobias. Her phobias are to such an extreme that both of her teenagers dropped out of school to take care of her. As I listened to this woman describe her life, which is totally controlled by her fears, I started thinking about my own fears and how they have controlled me in the past. My fears may not have controlled me to the depth like this women's fears have, but none-the-less, they did control me at a certain level.
Fear is an interesting concept. Often times we waste our life worrying about what "might happen." When in reality, what we worry about will probably never happen. And, even if that which we fear does happen, worrying about it is not going to prevent it from happening.
So, how do we let go of this fear? It's really a matter of changing old patterns and habits. You need to re-program your mind and thoughts. You can choose to continue to worry, or choose to let them go and live in the moment. Meditation is a good place to start. Focus on the here and now. What do you know is fact...right now...in this moment. Don't think about the future...it's not here, yet. Think about the present moment. Stay focused on that. It won't come naturally at first. Our brains are like a train running along the same tracks, it's hard to derail and get off the track. But, keep working at it. With practice, you'll see a small shift, and then a little bit more of a shift until eventually you've reprogrammed your thought pattern.
Take comfort in knowing that if problems do arise (and they will), you'll be able to deal with it. Plus, you'll be mentally stronger because you've been focusing on the positive. A positive mind and spirit is key to dealing with all kinds of issues. Life is not a free ride, nor will it always be easy. We know this. But, it's how we deal with the challenges we face that matters. Counseling is also a great tool to help as well if you can't master the art of leaving fear behind on your own.
Stay healthy, stay positive and stay strong.
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