Starting Strong: How to Overcome the Fear of Beginnings
Starting something new can be daunting. Sometimes, starting can be quite difficult because we feel confused or afraid. These feelings are a normal part of anxiety. In my case, anxiety was present because of the unfamiliar feeling from something that had never been done or felt before.
As I prepared to commence my role as a PPLSP (Program Pengenalan Lapangan Satuan Pendidikan or Education Unit Field Introduction Program) teacher at a prestigious state vocational high school in Bandung, a sense of apprehension loomed over me. Doubts clouded my mind, could I effectively present the material, handle student questions, and navigate the unfamiliar territory?
Reflecting on it, the fear stemmed from my lack of large-scale teaching experience. Pressure from grading expectations and the challenge of teaching at a top school added to the mix.
In my opinion, it is perfectly normal to feel afraid when embarking on something new. Particularly when our knowledge is limited, leading to increased worries. So, how do we overcome it?
Encouraging Yourself and Accepting Fear
The first step is to encourage yourself and accept the fear as a natural emotion. We understand that feeling afraid is not inherently wrong or negative. Fear and anxiety are common responses when venturing into unfamiliar territory. The key is not letting it paralyze us. Remind ourselves that confronting fear can lead to valuable opportunities for growth and learning. However, fighting fear also does not mean underestimating it.
It is important to understand that fear can be a sign of growth. As we face the unknown and step out of our comfort zones, we challenge ourselves to learn and develop new skills. By embracing fear and using it as a motivator, we can push ourselves to achieve great things.
In our journey, we may come across situations where our initial perception of the challenge proves inaccurate. Sometimes, what appears to be a deep pond turns out to be only ankle-deep, and conversely, what seems shallow can unexpectedly leave us chest-high and struggling.
Knowing the Source of Fear
Once we have accepted fear, it is important to delve deeper and identify its source. The way I do it is by writing down various thoughts that bother me and become my worries. This process not only helps us pinpoint the roots of our fear but also provides a sense of relief as we release our emotions onto paper or a digital medium. This practice can be applied not only to fear but also to moments of sadness or anger.
By gaining a clearer understanding of the underlying causes of our fear, we can take proactive steps to address and overcome it. This self-reflection enables us to develop strategies, seek support, or acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to move forward with confidence. Writing down our fears serves as a cathartic release and empowers us to take control of our emotions, fostering a sense of empowerment and resilience.
Preparing Yourself to Face It
Once the source of fear is identified, we need to prepare ourselves well to face it. There are various ways to do this, such as seeking opinions and experiences from others who have faced similar fears. Their insights and advice can offer valuable guidance and reassurance.
Additionally, engaging in extensive reading or watching informative videos related to our fear can equip us with knowledge and practical strategies to tackle it. This self-education process enhances our understanding and enables us to approach our fear with greater confidence.
As we prepare ourselves, it is important to remember that facing our fears may yield surprising results. With increased confidence and a well-prepared mindset, we can confront the source of our fear head-on. Through this process, we may discover newfound strengths, capabilities, and resilience that enable us to overcome our fears.
By investing time and effort in preparation, equipping ourselves with the necessary knowledge and skills, and mustering the courage to confront our fears, we set ourselves on a path toward personal growth and triumph over adversity.
As I began writing this note, I was initially overwhelmed with uncertainty, unsure of how to convey my thoughts. However, with the simple act of typing the first word, I started reaching the end of this piece. This experience serves as a powerful reminder that starting is often the most challenging hurdle to overcome. Yet, once we take that courageous first step, the journey becomes increasingly manageable.
Embarking on any endeavor can evoke feelings of fear and anxiety. However, it is essential to remind ourselves that we possess the strength and resilience to confront these emotions head-on. By accepting our fears as a natural part of the process, we open ourselves to growth and transformation.
So let us embrace the uncertainties, conquer our fears, and embark on this journey together. With each step, we unveil new possibilities and uncover our true potential. Let’s take that first step and discover where it leads us! :)
