From the Desk of Keith Hafner
Fear affects us all, at one time or another. It:
- Prevents us from doing things we should do, or would like to do
- Produces mental stress and physical illness
- Robs us of the happy, healthy, confident life we deserve!
But here’s a little known secret. Many fears are like a toothless dog; all bark and no bite.
To be truly “StreetSmart,” we must learn that there are two types of fear.
The 1st type is the fear of circumstances that are truly dangerous. This fear is important, and must be paid attention to.
Should you have some fear about walking into traffic? Facing a vicious dog? An approaching tornado? Walking alone in a dangerous neighborhood?
You bet! If fear is a dog, these circumstances actually “bite!”
These fears are there to protect us from situations that might actually harm us! For most of us, these situations occur infrequently.
The 2nd type of fear is different. It’s also much more common.
It’s the fear that arises when no danger is actually present. For example, some people are afraid of:
- meeting new people
- trying new things
- setting higher standards for ourselves
These fears must be conquered! They don’t “bite”…they only “bark!”
They don’t protect us from any actual danger. They serve no purpose, other than to hold us back…to keep us from realizing our potential.
I urge you to continue to be cautious when confronting the fears that “bite.”
And to be a little more aggressive when confronting the fears that only “bark.”
There is probably something you would love to do, or need to do, but have held back. I suggest you identify one thing, big or small, that you have avoided. Make a commitment to confront that particular area. Use this opportunity to move outside of your comfort zone.
Take a shot. Give it a try. Don’t let the “toothless dog” rob you. Go for it. You will enjoy the confident, capable state that it puts you in. You will feel safe and empowered!
If you have questions about conquering FEAR, give me a call at 994-0333. I’d be glad to help!
Your Friend,
Keith Hafner
P.S. Many of our readers have called to find out how to learn more about “StreetSmart” topics. As a courtesy, I’ve decided to offer a Free One-Week Trial Membership at “Keith Hafner’s Karate” to all “StreetSmart” readers. If you would like to register, just call us at 994-0333 and ask for Ian. Classes fill quickly, so call soon!
