A Story Of overcoming Fear Inspired By Pitbull

​While listening to Pitbull's Globalization channel on SiriusXM on my way to work one morning I hear a promo bumper with Pitbull saying "FEAR has two meanings: Forget Everything And Run or Face Everything And Rise. The choice is yours." I love acronyms and I really liked this one but was it a Pitbull original? After a quick search it actually originated from Zig Ziglar, an author, salesman, and motivational speaker and it's a powerful message to share.

In 2019 I was asked if I would participate in a Dancing For A Cause fundraising event for the Lake Houston Family YMCA. Those who know me know I'm not shy and have no problem being in front of large crowds, but this, this was different. A choreographed routine with just me and a dance partner with everyone watching? So much could go wrong here and the fear kicked in! I had two choices: Forget Everything And Run or Face Everything And Rise. I chose the later and with the help of my amazing dance instructor and partner Elly Willms, it was an amazing experience and personal accomplishment. If you watch the 2 minute routine you'll understand why this post is titled 'Inspired by Pitbull'.​

There comes a time when the pressure is on. It would be best if you made a decision, but you're afraid to act. You're not sure you even can make the right decision, much less act on it. What do you do?

The problem isn’t so much about what needs to be decided. Instead, when this happens, you need to figure out how to find the confidence to act. But where can you gain unwavering self-belief fast? 

Give Yourself a Pep Talk
Hey, you've been here before. You've had doubts, made decisions, and in the end, things turned out just fine. Remind yourself of a little previous history where you know you did well. Now use a little logic: if you've done it before, it's clear you can do it again. 

Surround Yourself With The Right People
Do you have a support system? If those around you are more likely to criticize than cheer you on, walk away. You don’t need others running you down right now. Instead, seek out support from someone you know who believes in you and will be encouraging. Give them bonus points if you ask them to help you remember all the good stuff you've done in the past, and they come through for you.

See Yourself Succeed
Why not try a quick visualization of the outcome? By picturing your success, you’ll find it easier to make the decisions to set yourself in motion and will feel better about the potential outcome. Read my Guru Ninjas article on visualization here!

Face Everything And Rise
Finally, it’s so easy to be indecisive. Don’t fall into procrastination or stall out entirely. Instead, realize there comes a time when you need to take the plunge and act. Trust your instincts and jump right in.