Overcoming Fears Through Action: A Personal Journey
The path to overcoming fears is often a personal and challenging one, but as I reflect on my journey in 2017, it became clear that taking immediate action is the key. After recovering from a series of hospital treatments, I was left with a sense of disorientation and a daunting task of regaining my footing. However, through the power of running, I learned to confront my anxiety and fears head-on.
The Refugee of My Mind: Running and Anxiety
After being discharged from the hospital, my days were marked by a general anxiety disorder. The mornings when I laced up my running shoes and stepped onto the track were filled with a sense of liberation. Each step brought a promise of strength and resilience. The rhythmic beats of my feet on the crosstie track, the focus on my breathing, pushed away the psychological fog.
Running became my sanctuary. It was a way to escape the turmoil of my thoughts and regain control. With every run, I was able to lift my spirits and regain a sense of normalcy. My struggles to balance life and my mental health highlighted the power of mindfulness and physical activity in managing anxiety.
Acting Fearlessly: Dealing with Specific Fears
The process of overcoming fears doesn’t stop at general anxiety. I’ve faced specific fears with resolute action. For instance, a persistent fear of speaking on stage led me to step into the spotlight oneself. The act of facing my fear without hesitating helped to demystify it. By speaking up, I challenged the grip of my anxiety and strengthened my resolve to confront future challenges.
Confronting External Fears and Relapse Anxiety
One of my most prevalent fears is a sense of impending doom, stemming from the external environment and the aftermath of my relapse. This fear brought a sense of helplessness and pushed me to seek solace in the act of running. When the fear of a relapse loomed, I turned to running to alleviate my concerns and provide a sense of empowerment.
Step Out of Comfort Zones: Physical and Mental Challenges
Personal and professional growth often require stepping out of comfort zones. I have faced other fears head-on. For example, overcoming the anxiety that once prevented me from traveling beyond a 25-minute radius required me to call a town half an hour away. I had the courage to unlock the front door after being confined at home due to COVID. Each small step out of my comfort zone was a victory, and it reaffirmed my ability to face and conquer my fears.
Seeking Support and Validation
Validating my fears and anxieties is crucial in the fight against mental health challenges. When I sought help from a mental health line, a supportive voice on the other end acknowledged my feelings and provided validation. This conversation was empowering because it reminded me that my fears were real and valid, even if they seemed irrational to others. Cognitive therapy and therapy sessions provided additional support to modify my targets and face my fears.
Today, I continue to face my fears with a mindset of action and resilience. Each step forward is a testament to my journey of overcoming anxiety and living with purpose.
Remember, fear is a natural response, but taking action can transform it into a meaningful journey of personal growth and resilience.