What are you afraid of? As children we have many fears depending on our age. As infants and toddlers, we are afraid of loud noises, large objects, strangers and separation.
[featured-image single_newwindow=”false”]
As we get older and we become more aware of our surroundings, our fears evolve to include being afraid of the dark, monsters, dogs, doctors, failure and rejection.
As we grow older, we tend to outgrow most of our fears. However, adults still have fears.
According to research, the top eight adult fears are fear of flying, public speaking, heights, the dark, intimacy, death, failure and rejection.
So where do our fears come from? The American Psychiatric Association explained most of our common fears are learned fears. Therefore, they are treatable. But what happens when we don’t address our fears? They can control our lives and affect how we live and lead.
[callout]Fear is a reality![/callout]
We all deal with fear, even leaders! So, what are the top fears of leaders? Dale Roach identified eight fears leaders may face:
- Fear of criticism
- Fear of failure
- Fear of not being popular
- Fear to lead due to past failures
- Fear of making mistakes
- Fear of not being a natural leader
- Fear of not knowing enough to be a leader
- Fear of being rejected
Leaders must overcome their fears to accomplish their goals. How can you overcome your fears? Preparation! Brent Gleeson, former Navy Seal, stated, “the first step in overcoming fear is being prepared.”
Fear doesn’t have to be your enemy. The key is to be aware of your fears and learn how to move forward despite your fears.
Face your fears head on to conquer them. How? Chris Cancialosi, offers the following six steps to help leaders face their fears:
- Realize you are not alone
- Identify what’s the worst thing that could happen
- Recognize failing doesn’t make you a failure
- As for help
- Understand what is driving your fear and turn it into an advantage
- Remember everyone is watching your reaction to threats
Fear is a natural emotion. We all have fears. The question is, how do we deal with them?
[shareable cite=”Nelson Mandela”]I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”[/shareable]
As the leader, everyone will take their que from you. If you are afraid to make a decision or take a risk, you will limit your ability to achieve success.
How do you overcome fear?
Your leadership guide,
Kim
Dr. Kim Moore | Your Leadership Guide | kimdmoore.com
0 comments