Facing My Fear of Fear: Coping Strategies and Insights

As someone who has grappled with fear, I often wondered whether it is a common experience. My journey was not about an irrational fear of objects or situations (phobias) per se, but rather a fear of fear itself. While intellectually, I knew that fear is often a product of the mind's own illusions, my reaction to fear was often impulsive and misguided.

My Journey With Fear

Early in my life, I tried to overcome fear by force, sometimes in ways that were foolish. For instance, I would jump off buildings when scared, or ride my bicycle in thunderstorms. These actions were futile attempts to conquer fear, but they were misguided and dangerous.

Eventually, I realized that overcoming fear through force was ineffective. To recognize and refrain from acting compulsively, I had to learn Transcendental Meditation (TM). TM helps to erase stress and provide a peaceful mindset, making it easier to confront and manage fear.

Fear in Everyday Life

Fear is a pervasive emotion that affects us all, from children starting school to adults dealing with career, marriage, and the health of loved ones. It is a natural response that is often linked to our vulnerability and uncertainty. However, it is crucial to understand that everyone's experience of fear is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.

Overcoming Fear Through Experience

One of the most effective ways to overcome fear is by facing it directly. In our lives, we often witness children overcoming their fear of going to school. By confronting their fear, they learn to manage it, and this process of facing fear can be a powerful lesson for us all. Childhood fear of schools can be traced to much more minor fears that are conquered through direct confrontation.

This experience shows us that the most effective way to tackle fear might be to confront it head-on. While there are many professional and medical options available for those with phobias, sometimes the best doctor is the experience itself. Those who successfully face their fears can add to the list of conquerors, while those who do not succeed can always explore other avenues and maintain hope.

In conclusion, fear is a universal experience, and dealing with it can be challenging. However, by facing our fears, recognizing their nature, and using strategies like Transcendental Meditation, we can manage and eventually overcome them. Whether it is through direct experience or professional help, the key is to not give in to the illusion of fear and to face it bravely.