In our ongoing series on overcoming fear, we explore the personal stories of individuals who have faced their fears head-on. Marii’s journey is a compelling example of resilience and determination, demonstrating how one can confront and manage fears through practice, support, and a proactive mindset.
The Fear of Riding
Marii’s fear is closely linked to her experiences with riding bicycles and motorcycles. Despite her love for riding, she has always been haunted by the fear of causing harm to others, which has often prevented her from riding on the open road. Confined to the safety of her garage, Marii’s determination to overcome this fear led her to take small but significant steps towards conquering it. She practices riding for at least 30 minutes every day, focusing on the direction she is heading rather than the potential dangers around her. This consistent effort not only improves her riding skills but also boosts her confidence, illustrating how regular practice can help overcome deeply ingrained fears.
Childhood Memories and Fear
Marii’s fear extends beyond riding. She recalls a childhood incident that left a lasting impact on her. One night, her mother took her to a school competition but mistakenly left without checking if that was the location for the competition. Alone in the school, Marii experienced a sudden and intense fear of heights, as she looked down from an upstairs balcony. This fear has persisted into her adulthood, manifesting as anxiety whenever she is on an upper floor. Marii believes that this fear is more about the feeling of being alone and unsupported rather than the height itself. The experience triggered a profound sense of vulnerability, creating a lasting association between fear and heights. It is a powerful reminder of how childhood experiences can shape our fears and anxieties as adults.
The Role of Support and Company
Marii acknowledges the importance of support and company in overcoming fear. She understands that having supportive people around her can significantly reduce her anxiety. Conversely, being around anxious and fearful individuals can amplify her own fears due to the phenomenon of mirror neurons, where one person’s emotions can trigger similar feelings in another. To combat this, Marii consciously chooses to surround herself with confident and joyful people, which helps her maintain a positive mindset. This support network acts as a buffer against her fears, giving her the strength to face them head-on. Her experience underscores the significance of a strong support system when dealing with fear and anxiety.
Key Learnings
Marii’s story is a testament to the power of determination and the importance of support in overcoming fear. By taking small steps, practicing regularly, and surrounding herself with positive influences, Marii continues to confront her fears and emerge stronger. Her journey reminds us that fear is not something to be avoided but rather a challenge to be faced and conquered. Through her disciplined practice, focus on positive support, and proactive approach to confronting fear, Marii exemplifies how we can all learn to manage and overcome our fears. Her story is a source of inspiration and a reminder that with the right mindset and support, we can navigate and overcome the fears that hold us back. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories in our series on overcoming fear.
Smile and Let Smile 