By Caitlin Hornik
Take a moment to think about fear. While it’s not the most pleasant thing to think about, it’s likely that one or two prominent ones pop into your mind. Maybe they’re big fears, maybe they’re small. Some affect us more than others, without a doubt. But fear is more common than we think!
Fear is sometimes a factor in decision-making. Some will err on the side of caution, which is not necessarily a bad thing. However, when fear holds us back from accomplishing the things we set out to do, it can be detrimental to our growth. Take travel, for example. Perhaps you dream of traveling all around the globe. You want to picnic in Paris, soak up the sun in Bali, and snorkel Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. But fear is holding you back.
Travel is a great way to tackle some of your biggest fears head-on. From heights to animals to germs and beyond, there is no better way to conquer your fears than by seeing the world.
"I can't look down!"
A fear of heights is so common. Really. There are people who can’t sit in the mezzanine or balcony of a theater because looking down at the stage freaks them out. Normal? Yes. Relatable? Sure. Conquerable? Absolutely! By getting on a plane!
Most people dislike the ascent and descent of plane rides. It’s a weird feeling to fight gravity for sure! But once you’ve hit 30,000 feet and you’re soaring through the clouds, it’s easy peasy. Flying is a great way to deal with your fear of heights.
First, you’re surrounded by a knowledgeable and helpful crew trained to fly for a living! Second, you’re with dozens of other people all experiencing similar feelings. You’re all in this together (literally and figuratively). Look out the window, don’t look out the window, whatever is going to make you feel most comfortable. Just know that by getting on a plane, you are facing down a huge fear - and there’s so much to celebrate once you land!
"Don't touch that! It's germy!"
We’re sure you’ve seen the news and read the articles that point to how germ-ridden airports and planes can be. BUT, consider your cellphone. Your handbag. Door handles, railings, and elevator buttons. These everyday things you encounter also have germs. Nothing some anti-bacterial wipes can’t handle!
There are so many precautions you can take if you’re worried about the germs you may encounter while traveling. Keep hand sanitizer on you at all times. You can also wear a face mask on the plane if it makes you feel more comfortable! Buy a pack of antibacterial wipes and keep them handy for when you get to your hotel room. If this will give you more peace of mind during your travels, go for it!
"Leave my comfort zone?!"
It’s so easy to settle into a daily routine within the comforts of home, work, and relationships. Leaving that routine even for a few days can induce fear. Stepping outside of your comfort zone is vital to growth as a person and in life! The sameness of your routine, while comforting, also has the potential to hold you back from reaching your full potential. Of course, it’s scary to abandon your meticulously planned schedule in favor of lounging and relaxing. But who doesn’t need that once in a while?!
Trade in your business attire for a bathing suit for a few days. We promise you’ll benefit in more ways than one!
