What Is Fear?
Fear is our most ancient survival tool a natural response to danger, real or imagined. But sometimes, fear outstays its welcome. It whispers that we can’t… until we believe it.
For some, fear is an occasional visitor. For others, it’s a daily shadow phobias, anxiety, panic attacks. I’ve lived with those shadows.
But I’ve also walked through them.
My Fears And How I Faced Them
I’ve been fortunate. Not because I had no fear but because life gave me the opportunity to learn how to manage it.
🌉 Fear of Heights
I learned to rock climb in Staffordshire and Wales.
I faced my limits on a rickety old bridge in Bavaria, and still crossed it.
I even abseiled down rockfaces and braved a Tyrolean traverse in Pembrokeshire the kind that would once leave me frozen.
✈️ Fear of Travel & Claustrophobia
I boarded a plane to Gran Canaria despite the panic bubbling beneath the surface.
Tight, enclosed spaces were once unbearable. But with support, I found my breath and moved through them.
🏞️ Agoraphobia
Being outdoors, especially alone or in open spaces, used to trigger spirals of panic.
Over time and with exposure, grounding techniques, and support I reclaimed those spaces.
🧠 How?
Anxiety groups helped me understand my fear, not just fight it.
Tactics like grounding, breathwork, visualization, and controlled exposure allowed me to manage reactions and regain control.
Support networks reminded me I wasn’t alone.
Fear Doesn’t Vanish But You Can Walk With It
I haven’t eliminated fear. But I’ve redefined my relationship with it.
Fear still shows up sometimes before a challenge, a new trip, or a difficult day.
But now, I meet it with tools, not terror.
I share this not because I’ve ‘won’, but because you can too. Fear doesn’t make you weak. Facing it makes you brave.
Final Words
Whether your fear is public speaking, flying, crowded places, or the dark know this:
You are not broken.
You are not alone.
You are not weak.
You are learning.
And healing.
And growing.
Every time you show up despite fear, you win something back.
If you’re struggling, reach out. Speak to someone. Join a support group. Try one small thing.
You’ve already survived everything life has thrown at you. That’s proof of your strength.
StormborneLore 