Many of us carry around a lot of excess baggage. Stuff that happened 6
months, a year, 5, 10, even 20 years ago remains devotedly attached to our
memories. And we wonder why we can't move forward, why we can't get ahead
and achieve big dreams. Until we deal with our unrest we will never move
ahead. Our joy and happiness - our peace of mind and personal successes
will not become realities until we conquer our fears, doubts and mistrusts.
We will not experience personal growth or development; we will not
experience a vibrant persona until we are victorious over this debilitating
malady. Fear is a feeling that too often rules our lives and makes us
dysfunctional.

Whether it is fear of commitment, rejection, failure, death, flying, job
loss, poor health, divorce; fear of loneliness, criticism, growing old or
not having your needs met, this fear beast dictates and prevents us from
living our lives to the fullest. Nonetheless, fear can be survived and
triumphed over if you are willing to work and are motivated enough to subdue
it - rather than let it remain in control. ARE YOU WILLING TO TAKE A LEAP OF
FAITH?

Fear is the biggest obstacle to pursuing your dreams; it sabotages your
success. Many people insist it is a lack of money or time or resources that
holds a person back; but, it is the fear demon. You see, where there is a
will there still is a way to receive your needs and many of your wants.
Fear minimizes the quality of your thinking and squashes aggressive action.
If you can't think right, you can't do right.you can't achieve your heart's
desires.

What is it that you've wanted to pursue, that you've been hesitating to
venture upon? Pull out a sheet of paper, better yet take out a spiral
notebook and let's deal with this nuisance. The first step in conquering
fear is to understand its source. Make a list of everything that agitates
you and disquiets your spirit. Leave about three lines between each item.
Now go back and think about what originates that doubt. What is it about
flying that frightens you? What is it about losing your job that terrorizes
you? Why do you not believe that all of your needs will be provided for?
What is it about change, challenge and new responsibilities that sends you
into orbit? Why do you feel trapped and helpless? Try to understand where
you are now, why you have these fears, doubts and mistrusts by looking into
your past - but don't dwell there. You must acknowledge and understand your
fear in order to conquer it.

You may need to work on your list and brainstorm a few days or weeks; do
whatever it takes. Every single move in the right direction will lead you
to victory. After identifying your fears, search deep within and consider
their source - where did they come from. Ponder why your fear exists so
strongly. Answers to these queries will bring about the solutions that are
right for you. If you are a Believer, I urge you to pray earnestly, study
your Bible and have faith in the Word of God. The Scriptures below will get
you started on your way:
Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you
rest. - Matthew 11:28

Trust in the Lord with all of your heart; and lean not unto your own
understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your
paths. Be not wise in your own eyes: fear the Lord and, and depart from
evil. - Proverbs 3:5-7

.whosoever shall say unto this mountain, be thou removed and be thou cast
into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those
things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.
- Mark 11:23

Cast your burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain thee. - Psalm 55:22a

For with God nothing shall be impossible. - Luke 2:37

The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord
shall be safe [secure].
- Proverbs 29:25

Pray, meditate, think logically; learn the origin of your fears - doubts and
mistrusts. Understand where you are right now by taking a look into your
past. Only then can you start to conquer fear. Talk about your fears with
someone you can confide in, with someone who has proper knowledge,
compassion and skills to help you. It is very important that you
recognize, define and accept your fears. Only then can you comprehend where
they come from and how you can rid yourself of them. Take baby steps - crawl
before you walk. Endeavor patiently; persevere with tenacity and
determination. YOU WILL BE AN OVERCOMER.