Don’t let fear get in your way
I am afraid of water. Whenever I wash my face or shampoo my hair, I would clench my eyes, yes clench as in clenching my fists. My eyes are sensitive to water and I would feel pain if water gets into my eyes. Till today, although I have tried on a few occasions to learn how to swim, I cannot even float in water.
Having said that, I did not allow my fear of water deprive me of the pleasure I could associate with it. I enjoy sitting on the raised rock stones by the beach and gazing into the ocean. Whatever mood I was in, I will be instantly transported to a place of peace and calm. I also enjoy the soothing sounds of waterfall, the refreshing warm bath and the therapeutic effects of hot spring bath. If I have let my fear of water get in my way, I will never know the joy that water can bring.
How about you? Do you have a fear for heights, a fear for taking the plane? Are you afraid to ask questions for fear of being labeled stupid? Don’t let fear get in your way. Be open to possibilities. Give yourself a chance. You will never know the joy and more if you leave the door closed.
I know of people who are afraid to take planes. They have a phobia for heights and fear that the plane will crash or something bad will happen. If you have this phobia, try to overcome it bit by bit. Choose a short trip. Imagine the exciting places and cultures you will get to experience once you reach your destination. Perhaps you can give the window seat a miss on your first flight. Wear something comfortable. During take-off, just close your eyes and say a little prayer. Chew a little gummy. Before you know it, the plane is in mid air and be rest assured that you will not feel any sense of height up there. Do something you enjoy - read a book, watch a movie, listen to music or simply play a game. The cabin crew will start serving drinks. Enjoy the drink, enjoy the service. Be happy in whatever you are engaged in. In no time, the plane will prepare for landing and there you are, safe and sound on the ground and ready to have fun.
Once you have crossed the hurdle, you will realize that your fear is actually baseless, just your imaginations and perceptions based on limited information or distorted facts. So, don’t deprive yourself of the joy you can have. Be brave, cross the hurdle.