Smarter and Harder

5 Healthy Ways to manage and overcome fear

Fear is a tricky emotion. Like many negative emotions, it serves an important place in keeping us safe and healthy.

In the case of fear specifically, it helps to warn us about potential dangers so that we can respond or avoid them entirely.

But that doesn't mean it always has the right idea. Fear can cause a strong overreaction, or prevent someone from moving forward on important things.

To build a healthier relationship with fear so that it can do its job without taking over your life, try some of the following tips.

1. Breathe

A few slow, deep breaths circulate vital oxygen and send a signal to your nervous system that you are not in immediate danger.

2. Face the fear

Often, fear is a result of not knowing or understanding something. Gradually exposing yourself to it can take the fear's power away.

3. Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to the physical signs of fear that your body is sending so that you can learn to respond in an appropriate, healthy way.

4. Push Your Comfort Zone

The more of life you explore and learn to enjoy, the less of it will feel quite so unknown and frightening.

5. Make the Leap

Sometimes fear is an important warning to stay safe. Other times, the best thing you can do is to breathe deep and push ahead!

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