Have you ever noticed that the arch nemesis of a hero is usually everything they’re afraid of becoming? In literary terms this is called a foil, or a character whose personality/appearance/attitude contrasts that of another (usually the protagonist). Oftentimes, it’s a fantastic tool for establishing the protagonist’s greatest fears and their methods of conquering those fears. These techniques only require the burning desire to overcome that which scares you and the courage to persevere.

Step One: Focus

Before heading into battle it’s important to focus on the task at hand. Take a moment determine what it is you’re fighting against and let it resonate within you. Visualize your fear. Let your emotions rage within and get to know your enemy.

I’m sure you’ll recognize these feelings and the knee-jerk reaction will be to suppress them. Understanding the control fear has over you will make it much easier to part ways with it.

This technique has worked wonders for me. I let me fears wash over me, losing all control for just a few moments and when it’s over my only desire is to take action.

After the initial shock of letting go you’ll find yourself extremely empowered!

Step Two: Develop a Battle Strategy

Now that you’re well acquainted with your enemy, we need to start brainstorming. Think of ways you can push your fear to limit. What will make it squirm? How can you take steps to gain leverage over your opponent?

When I was battling my severe introversion, I picked up everything and moved to Seattle. I made myself get a job where I had to regularly initiate conversations and practice my small talk skills. Even though I ended up leaving that job and Seattle, it was the turnaround point for me. I rarely refer to myself as introvert anymore.

Your strategy doesn’t have to be this extreme, but you must gain the upper hand. Without it, you will succumb to your fear and that just can’t happen!

One of the best books I’ve read on fear is Seth Godin’s Linchpin(affiliate link). It’s not inherently about fear, but there is an entire section dedicated to what Seth calls the “lizard brain” (or the amygdala in scientific terms). It controls all of the basic emotions such as fear, rage, and your sex drive. If you can’t get your hands on a copy of the book, check out this article. It will tell you everything you need to know about the lizard brain in a nutshell.

Step Three: Face Your Enemy

An appropriate layer of mist covers the earth as you stride confidently toward your opponent. Though every inch of you is quaking with fear, your mind remains exceedingly calm. Without a word you attack, carefully executed your battle strategy with precision and grace. Moments later, your greatest fear lays on the ground, unable to move. You point your weapon at its throat and then sheath it. You are now its master. You have gained control.

Killing your fear is not the objective. You simply need to let it know that you’ve earned seniority. It can no longer call the shots and be an authority figure. With that knowledge, feel free to buy that fair maiden a drink or give a riveting speech to the Justice League. It’s your game now.

Finally Note

Never go into battle unprepared. Only you know what it will take to conquer your arch nemesis. Although you can’t be fearless, you can have less fear and that is what it’s all about.

Image Credit: -ratamahatta-