Fear Of Looking Stupid?

Most people are living life on other people’s terms. Living to avoid fear, risk, embarrassment, and judgment. We build up belief patterns from childhood memories that don’t serve us. They cripple our growth and enable us from living a life of authenticity and joy. We miss out on so much when we allow fear to lead our choices and prevent us from experiences. In fact, we suppress who we truly are and limit our growth. The fear becomes the mask that we wear to “protect” ourselves. However, is it really “protecting” us, or is it just an illusion that keeps us from being our authentic selves?

I too, am continually working through fears and limiting belief patterns that keep me from living completely authentic…it’s a journey. However, I have implemented a few techniques that help me move through the fears much quicker now in most situations.

First, and foremost, is you have to be accountable and get real with yourself. You have to identify when you are making excuses in order to stay complacent…or “safe”. This takes courage and vulnerability.

Second, when a new experience or opportunity comes up and I feel the fear and the voice inside my head starts to tell me the bullshit stories about why I shouldn’t do I. I use that as my signal! That is my signal to move forward. My signal that I must walk through and do it!

Lastly, I view people as actors in my story…the story of my life, viewed through my lens. Knowing that everyone is viewing things from their own lens and perspectives, helps detach from the thought patterns that keep you from moving forward. None of what other people think or do has anything to do with you. It’s their movie, it’s their story, it’s all projection.

A little challenge for you…

The next time an opportunity or new experience is presented, instead of going to the fear and the negative dialogue right away…say “yes”! Say “yes” and embrace it! You may go to the thoughts and the fears…that’s okay. Feel all of it and do it anyway. You never know…you may discover that you are amazing at playing the drums!

Note: I cannot play the drums to save my life! However, it was so much fun giving it a try.