Why do we feel fear? I’ve heard that women are naturally more fearful than men. I don’t actually believe that this is true. I believe that women are perhaps more vocal about their fear then men.
I’ve noticed that men are more likely to respond with anger rather than using emotions that are more closely linked with fear. However, I think that anger is often substituted for fear even if the individual is not aware of it. Lately, I’ve been feeling very afraid and distant. I don’t’ know why but fear has been plaguing my thoughts and my dreams. I fear the future. I worry, “What if I fail?” or “What if I’m not good enough?” These thoughts run through my mind over and over as a I think about all the things I want to achieve but don’t because I let fear override my drive and sense of grit.
I think we all have secret fears that are driving our behavior. Dark secrets that keep us awake at night. We are afraid of being alone. We are afraid of failing. We are afraid of rejection. We are afraid no one will love us. Fear has a way of twisting the truth. Fear can blind us and prevent us from seeing ourselves as we really are. When I’m afraid I cannot look at myself objectively and determine what I need to do. Instead I respond out of a sense of dread and overwhelm.
So how do you shut down fear? I have found that the best way to move past fear is with action. If I’m scared of dealing with a conflict, I schedule a time to meet and work it out. If I’m scared of talking about a topic, I press in and do it anyway. However, what do you do when you can’t pinpoint where the fear is coming from? What if you feel afraid but don’t understand why? I’ve been talking to my counselor about this recently. Why do I fear? I don’t have an answer yet! I’ve been journaling and reflecting, but I’m still unsure. I keep going back to Psalms 56:3, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” God is sufficient to give me what I need in this season of fear!
Goodbye for now friends! If this encouraged you please share it with a friend and remember we release new blog posts every Monday!
~Shelby
P.S. I was able to meet with my counselor and learn the root cause of my fear. I will share more in the future!