Embracing the Vulnerability of Faith and Facing the Fear that Holds Us Back: Do I Have What It Takes? Who Will Catch Me If I Fall?
I. Introduction
Faith and vulnerability are two concepts that may seem contradictory at first glance. Faith is often associated with certainty and confidence, while vulnerability implies uncertainty and risk. Yet, the two are intimately connected. When we have faith in ourselves, our abilities, and the universe, we are more willing to take risks and embrace vulnerability. But what happens when our faith is shaken, and fear and doubt creep in? Do we have what it takes to pursue our dreams and goals, even when the path ahead seems uncertain?
In this reflection, we’ll explore the delicate balance between faith and vulnerability, and how facing our fears and doubts can lead to growth, transformation, and a deeper trust in ourselves and the universe. We’ll examine the question: ‘Do I have what it takes to pursue my dreams and goals?’ and explore practical ways to cultivate the faith and courage needed to overcome obstacles and achieve our aspirations.
II. The Fear of Uncertainty
The Fear of Uncertainty
One of the greatest obstacles to pursuing our dreams and goals is the fear of uncertainty. The unknown can be daunting, and the fear of what might go wrong can hold us back from taking the first step. This fear can manifest in different ways, such as:
– Fear of failure: What if I try and don’t succeed?
– Fear of rejection: What if others don’t approve or accept me?
– Fear of change: What if I step out of my comfort zone and everything falls apart?
Examples of the unknown that may evoke fear or discomfort include:
– Starting a new business or venture without a guaranteed outcome
– Pursuing a new career or changing industries without a clear path forward
– Ending a toxic relationship or marriage, unsure of what’s next
– Moving to a new country or city without a support system
– Taking a break from a stable job to travel or pursue a passion project
– Experiencing a serious health issue or chronic illness with an uncertain prognosis
– Getting married or committing to a long-term partnership without knowing what the future holds
– Having children and navigating the unknowns of parenthood
– Switching to a new field or industry that requires retraining or upskilling
– Pursuing a creative passion or artistic endeavor without a clear monetization strategy
This fear of uncertainty can lead to a discomfort with vulnerability, causing us to play it safe and stick to what we know, even if it means sacrificing our dreams and aspirations. We may rationalize our decision by telling ourselves that it’s better to be safe than sorry, but in reality, we are often holding ourselves back from experiencing the fullness of life.
Playing it safe can lead to a life of regret, wondering what could have been if only we had taken the leap of faith. As the saying goes, ‘The greatest risk is not taking any risk…’ (Mark Zuckerberg). By allowing our fear of uncertainty to hold us back, we risk missing out on opportunities for growth, learning, and transformation.
III. The Power of Faith
Faith is the sense of purpose and direction, and the willingness to walk our path without knowing all the answers. It’s the strength to take risks and step out of our comfort zones one small step after another. Faith is the trust we have in ourselves, our abilities, and a higher power, to make up for what we lack. Faith is living in the present moment while envisioning the next best step.
Examples of the power of faith include:
– J.K. Rowling, who wrote much of the first Harry Potter book in local cafes while a single mother living on welfare, trusting that her story would resonate with readers.
– Stephen Curry, who was told he was too small and too weak to make it in the NBA, but believed in his abilities and went on to become a champion.
– Malala Yousafzai, who continued to advocate for girls’ education despite death threats and attempts on her life, trusting in the power of her message.
– The countless people who have overcome illnesses, addictions, and personal struggles, finding the strength to persevere through their faith.
IV. Facing Fears and Embracing Vulnerability
7 Things We Must Do
- Self-Reflection
No doubt it could be hard to try again if we have tried and failed before. But like it is said, winners don’t quit. Now we don’t want to rise and make the same mistakes. So it is important we identify past failures, and instead of dwelling on the negative, extract lessons learned. We could ask:
– What did I learn from the experience?
– What would I do differently next time?
– What strengths did I develop during the process?
– What did I learn from my past failures?
– What am I grateful for in this experience?
– What am I proud of myself for?
- Mindfulness:
Pay attention to your mind. Be present and listen to its utterances. It is like our highly critical sadist best friend. I know, right? It knows all the reasons things can’t be done and most of it revolve around proves. Don’t allow it win the argument against your dreams. Challenge its negative talks and limiting beliefs. Then back it up with proves by actually doing it. Dazzle it with your guts and watch it be your evangelist.
Challenge limiting beliefs by recognizing and reframing negative self-talk. Examples:
– Limiting belief: “I’m not good enough.”
– Challenge: “I’ve accomplished X, Y, and Z. I am capable.”
– Limiting belief: “I’ll fail again.”
– Challenge: “I learned from past failures and will apply those lessons this time. Oh, wait. I actually applied those lessons last week and watch me do it again.”
- Taking Action:
It takes guts to step out of our comfort zone. That’s why it’s called the hero’s journey.
Yes, even when the time doesn’t seem right. Because guess what? The perfect moment, the perfect feeling, or the perfect circumstances will never show up. The truth is, our feelings will never be ready. Our limbic systems will always be hesitant, always be afraid. But as heroes, we are decisive. We know that our cortex, our executive brain, is capable of leading the way.
As Oprah Winfrey says, “Do the next right thing. Then the next right thing.” We can break down our goals into smaller, manageable steps. Then take consistent action, even if it’s just a small step today. This proves to our minds that we’re committed, that we’re serious about our goals. Our minds want proof, not promises. They want to see action, not intentions. So, we must take the leap. Start small or start big, but start. Because the only way for us to build faith in ourselves is to take action.
The hero’s journey is not a comfortable journey. It’s a journey of growth, of transformation, of becoming the best version of ourselves. And growth is uncomfortable. Like teething. I still shudder at the memory of my wisdom teeth announcing its emergence.
- Embracing Discomfort
The hero’s journey isn’t easy; it’s uncomfortable and stressful, like growing wisdom teeth. When we challenge ourselves to grow, or try something new, our brains are literally reorganizing and adapting. This process, called neuroplasticity, can be uncomfortable because of the new neural pathways being created between neurons, and the existing ones being strengthened. which can lead to a temporary feeling of anxiety, and even fear, since our brains are wired to prefer efficiency and routine.
We must however embrace the discomfort, recognizing it as a sign that our brains are reorganizing and adapting to new experiences and knowledge. And not on a Netflix and chill marathon.
- Celebrating Progress
Celebrating progress is essential for our growth and development. It triggers the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin, associated with pleasure, motivation, and well-being – thus releasing tension, boosting motivation, enhancing memory, and associating growth with positive experiences. Furthermore, acknowledging our achievements, reinforce the positive behaviors and actions that led to success, and empower us to tackle new challenges.
- Building Resilience
From a neuroscience perspective, facing our fears and embracing vulnerability activates the brain’s stress response system, releasing stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Initially, this response can be overwhelming, but as we learn to manage our fears and vulnerabilities, our brain adapts and becomes more resilient.
The repeated activation of the stress response system strengthens the connection between the amygdala, the brain’s emotional center, and the prefrontal cortex, the region responsible for decision-making and problem-solving. This strengthened connection enables us to better regulate our emotions, think more clearly under pressure, and develop more effective coping strategies.
As we build resilience, our brain also develops a greater capacity for neuroplasticity, the ability to reorganize and adapt in response to new experiences; allowing us to rewire our brain’s response to stress, replacing fear and anxiety with confidence and courage, and strengthening our ability to bounce back from setbacks.
.V. The Safety Net of Support
In the Hero’s Journey, the mentor provides guidance and wisdom, helping the hero navigate challenges and achieve their quest. Similarly, in our personal journey, support and mentorship can play a crucial role in our growth and success.
However, it is important to state that seeking support and mentorship is a courageous and vulnerable act, essential for our personal growth and transformation. It requires us to admit that we can’t do it alone, that we need help, and that we are not all-powerful. Also, we expose ourselves to potential rejection, criticism, or dependency, which can be uncomfortable and even painful, considering this would invoive us surrendering some control over our journey and outcome, which can be difficult for those who like to maintain control. Talk about a safety net!
However, seeking support is also a sign of strength, courage, and wisdom, as it shows that we are willing to put aside our ego and pride to achieve our goals and grow as people. It’s a crucial aspect of our journey, as it allows us to learn from others, gain new perspectives, and build meaningful relationships that can aid us in our quest.
Furthermore, when we share our intentions and progress with a supportive guide, mentor, or community, we invite others to hold us accountable for our actions. Or inactions. This can help us stay focused and motivated, even when faced with challenges and setbacks, increasing our sense of responsibility, commitment and answerability, not just to ourselves, but also to others who believe in us and our quest
Remember, support sometimes may not be an embodied mentor. Reading books about people who have stepped out of the comfort zone, and interviewing friends and family who have had similar experiences also helps. Pain and growth are universal phenomenon. Our paths may be different, but the feelings and discomfort seldom are.
Approaching People for Support
When approaching people for support, it’s important to be honest, clear and open about our needs, goals, and challenges, and be specific about how they can help.
It is also important to establish a foundation of trust and rapport as that helps them feel more invested in our success.
We must also show appreciation for their time and expertise, and be respectful of their boundaries. Remember that they may not always be able to help, and that’s okay.
VI. Conclusion
In conclusion, embracing vulnerability and facing our fears is a powerful way to cultivate faith and achieve our goals. By recognizing the ways in which fear holds us back, and actively working to overcome it, we can develop the courage and resilience needed to pursue our dreams.
Through self-reflection, mindfulness, and taking action, we can build the faith in ourselves and the universe that is necessary for success.
Additionally, seeking support from others and being open to guidance and mentorship can provide a safety net that helps us stay accountable and motivated on our journey. Remember, growth is uncomfortable, but it’s a necessary step towards progress. By embracing vulnerability and facing our fears, we can unlock our full potential and achieve great things.