Shawn Carroll NBC-HWCChange is scary. Whether you are making a small change like starting and exercise routine or a big change like moving across country to start a new job, you are going to have some fear. Fear of failure, fear of the unknown, fear of loneliness, fear of discomfort or pain, or just fear of what you will miss by making the change. In order to be successful in life, you must overcome your fears.
What is the Psychology Behind the Fear of Change?
The fear of change is like our brain’s way of trying to keep everything comfy and familiar. It’s all about sticking to what we know to avoid any potential chaos or uncertainty. Our minds are wired to see change as a bit of a threat, activating this ancient survival mode that tells us, “Hey, maybe stick with what you’ve got, it’s safe here.” It’s like our brain’s personal alarm system for anything new or different. Getting past this resistance means acknowledging that it’s a natural response, embracing the idea that change can be a good thing, and taking small steps to ease into it. It’s like convincing your brain that change isn’t the end of the world; it’s just the start of something new and exciting.
Embrace Change by Confronting Fear
Change, although a constant in life, can be intimidating, especially when it comes to making positive shifts in our lifestyles. The fear of stepping into the unknown, the anxiety of thinking “What if I fail?”, and the discomfort associated with leaving our comfort zones can create barriers to personal growth. It’s crucial to understand and address these fears to create a healthier, more fulfilling life.
The Unknown: Starting a journey of positive change often means venturing into unfamiliar territory. The fear of the unknown can be paralyzing, leaving us hesitant to take the first step towards a healthier lifestyle. What will life be like on the other side of change? The uncertainty can be a major roadblock.
The Dread of Failure: The fear of failure is something most people face. What if our efforts to make positive changes don’t get us the results we wanted? The fear of falling short of our goals can deter us from even attempting to improve our lives.
Comfort Zone Conundrum: Our comfort zones provide us with a sense of security, but they can also hold us back. Fear of leaving this zone, even if it means embracing positive changes, can be a formidable obstacle. The familiarity of routine often outweighs the potential benefits of change.
Social Judgment: The fear of being judged by others for making positive lifestyle changes can create a barrier to personal growth. Whether it’s criticism from peers or the worry of standing out, social judgment can be a powerful deterrent.
The Risk of Discomfort: Positive changes often come with discomfort. Whether it’s the physical discomfort of adopting a new exercise routine or the mental discomfort of breaking old habits, the fear of these challenges can be daunting.
Self-Help Strategies to Conquer Fear:
- Set Realistic Goals: Break down your goals into manageable steps to make the process less overwhelming.
- Cultivate a Growth Mindset: Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth rather than fearing potential setbacks.
- Build a Support System: Surround yourself with individuals who encourage and uplift you on your journey.
- Visualize Success: Picture the positive outcomes of your efforts to reinforce your commitment to change.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate every small achievement, fostering a sense of accomplishment.
- Educate Yourself: Knowledge is empowering. Learn about the benefits of the changes you’re making to build confidence.
- Practice Mindfulness: Stay present and focus on the positive aspects of your journey to alleviate anxiety about the future.
- Seek Professional Guidance: Consult with a health coach or counselor to receive personalized support and guidance
How a health Coach Can Help
A health coach serves as a valuable ally in conquering the fears associated with making positive changes. They provide personalized guidance, motivation, and a structured approach to breaking down barriers. By addressing the root causes of fear and developing tailored strategies for overcoming obstacles, a health coach empowers individuals to navigate the challenges of change with confidence.
In conclusion, confronting the fear of making positive changes in your life is an essential step toward personal growth and well-being. By implementing self-help strategies and enlisting the support of a health coach, you can transform fear into a driving force for positive transformation, unlocking the path to a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle.
“Life is a process of becoming, a combination of states we have to go through. Where people fail is that they wish to elect a state and remain in it. This is a kind of death.”
— Anais Nin
An NBHWC certified health coach has the training, skill, and know how to help you achieve your goals and create lasting, positive changes in your life.
