Click here to listen: eLesson_2012-0416

-

There are many types of fears, which we’ll dig into in the next lesson. In this lesson we’ll look at how to clarify fears. Fears come in two varieties: survival and illusory. Survival fears move us to take action, either fighting through a challenge or fleeing from it. Survival fears are helpful because they move us to take action. They are unhelpful because fighting through a challenge uses our energy inefficiently and our motivation is on just getting through the stress instead of enjoying it. Illusory fears are the ones that freeze us at stances, not knowing what to do. These are the ones we need to clarify.
-
First, it’s helpful to understand illusory fears as a lack of attention in the moment. By redirecting our attention to the moment, focused on the current task, we eliminate or diminish these fears. Redirecting our attention, to the moment and the current task, is always the first step in dealing with fears.
-
Next, illusory fears tend to create ambiguity. This is largely due to not being engaged enough in the situation. Questions can arise that need to be answered. If we dwell on the question we’ll stay frozen at our stance, not knowing what to do. Does the fear come from the possible fall? Am I afraid because it will be uncomfortable exerting all the required effort? Am I afraid of failing in front of my friends?
-
To clarify fears, and answer such questions, requires engagement. Taking action moves us out of our comfort zones. Once engaged, our attention becomes focused on the actual situation rather than our mind’s interpretation of it. We’ll soon know if we need to continue or retreat based on the increased stress and heightened awareness of the consequence. To clarify illusory fears, then, requires engagement.

-