All of us struggle with fear and worry from time to time. In fact, in many cases, fear is actually

a good and healthy thing. It causes us to wear seatbelts and try to eat healthy. It keeps us from

doing things that will hurt us, like getting too close to a fire or jumping into a lion’s cage at

the zoo.

It’s also natural to be concerned about our health, bank account, job status, children, and

more. When something threatens one of those things, we take notice. We work hard to protect

ourselves and those we love.

In some ways, fear is both a natural and helpful part of what it means to be human.

But if fear gets out of control, it can take over and prevent us from enjoying life. When we’re

consumed by fear, we can’t be present for others or do the things we love. Overwhelming fear

affects our health, saps our strength, makes it difficult to concentrate, and robs us of sleep.

It also keeps us from taking any risks. If we’re afraid, we won’t start new businesses, write

books, or initiate relationships. We’ll constantly play it safe, always trying to insulate ourselves

from any negative consequences. When we play it safe, we don’t grow. We stagnate. We miss

out on great opportunities.

Don’t Let Fear Hold You BackFROM FEAR TO GRATITUDE: EMBRACING SELF-COMPASSION FOR ANXIETY RELIEF | 03

We can’t run from fear or simply hope it goes away. There will always be something to worry

about.

If we’re going to successfully navigate the often-difficult world in which we live, we need

effective strategies for coping with worry and fear. We must be able to deal with our anxieties in

healthy and productive ways.

Franklin D. Roosevelt famously said,

“The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.

” And while this

isn’t 100% true (there are real things to fear), his point is well made. Fear holds us back from

living life to the fullest. We must learn how to overcome our fears, so we can move toward the

things we desire.

In this guide, you’ll discover proven strategies for facing and overcoming your fears.

You’ll learn effective, healthy strategies for handling worry and anxiety. No, your fears won’t suddenly

vanish. But you’ll be equipped to face them and deal with them.