#43 - 2/16/2025

From Fear to Freedom: How Talking to Your Fears Can Change Your Life

Several years ago, I discovered that a simple but intense fear would overtake me every time I was making a left turn or driving along a two-lane highway. It wasn’t just any fear—it was the fear of encountering a Semi 18-wheeler coming from the opposite direction. It’s a fear that still lingers today, though I’ve found a way to manage it, and in doing so, I’ve transformed my relationship with fear in general.

At first, it seemed completely irrational. Why should the presence of an 18-wheeler, a vehicle designed for long-haul travel, trigger a visceral reaction of anxiety in me? After all, I knew I was a capable driver, and the truck was just a vehicle like mine—only much larger. But no amount of logic could stop my body’s automatic response. The tightening chest, the rush of adrenaline, and the internal voice telling me to be careful—every time, without fail.

But then I was given a tip that would forever change the way I viewed fear and, ultimately, how I managed it.

Talking to Your Fears: The Power of Addressing Them

A friend once told me, "When you feel that fear creeping in, talk to the 18-wheeler—or even better, laugh at it." Initially, I thought it sounded absurd. How could talking to a truck, or laughing at my fear, have any real effect? But, desperate for a solution, I decided to give it a try.

So, the next time I was on the road and began to feel that familiar twinge of anxiety, I spoke up. Out loud, I’d say things like, "I’m in control," "I’m safe," or simply, "That truck is just a bigger vehicle; it’s no different from mine." It felt strange at first, but slowly, I began to notice something remarkable. The fear started to subside. It wasn’t gone completely, but each time it appeared, I was able to confront it with confidence rather than letting it overpower me.

The more I practiced, the more my body and mind seemed to adapt. The simple act of talking to my fear made it feel less intimidating. I was no longer running from it or pretending it didn’t exist. Instead, I was acknowledging it, disarming it, and taking back control in a way that felt empowering.

Affirmations: Turning Fear into Empowerment

A few months into this practice, I found myself developing a key affirmation that worked wonders. “I am safe.” Three words, simple and straightforward, but they had a profound effect. Each time the fear of the 18-wheeler returned, I would repeat those words to myself. It became a mantra—a powerful reminder that, no matter how intimidating the situation, I was safe and in control.

Affirmations are a tool many use to shift their mindset and break free from the grip of fear, anxiety, and self-doubt. They work by reframing negative thoughts and replacing them with positive, empowering ones. What’s interesting is that the brain doesn’t always differentiate between what is real and what is imagined. When you affirm to yourself that you’re safe, your brain begins to believe it, and your body follows suit, calming your nerves and resetting your emotional state.

“I am safe” became more than just a phrase. It became a shield against the fear, a reminder that I could navigate the road ahead with confidence. I realized that talking to my fears wasn’t just about silencing them—it was about standing my ground and asserting my own power.

Fear is Not the Enemy

The more I worked with this technique, the more I began to understand something deeper: Fear is not the enemy. Often, we view fear as something to avoid or conquer, something that’s inherently negative. But fear is simply a natural human response to uncertainty. It’s our body’s way of keeping us alert and protecting us from potential danger.

However, fear can become a problem when it holds us back, keeps us stuck, or prevents us from living fully. In my case, the fear of the 18-wheeler wasn’t based on any real threat—it was a product of my own mind creating a scenario that didn’t exist. The real danger came from allowing that fear to control me.

When we learn to talk to our fears, we acknowledge them, but we also take away their power. We stop running from them and start using them as tools for growth. We realize that fear, like any emotion, is temporary. And through our actions—whether it’s through affirmations, self-talk, or facing what scares us—we can transform fear into a catalyst for change.

Practical Steps to Overcome Your Own Fears

If you’re struggling with fear, whether it’s related to driving, speaking in public, or another challenge, here are a few practical steps you can take to start transforming your relationship with fear:

Acknowledge the Fear: The first step in overcoming fear is simply acknowledging it. Instead of avoiding the feeling, accept that fear is present and that it’s normal. This can be liberating in itself.


Talk to It: As I did with the 18-wheeler, speak to your fear. Give it a voice and address it directly. Say things like, "I’m in control," "This is not dangerous," or whatever affirmation resonates with you.


Use Affirmations: Develop a mantra that you can repeat to yourself whenever fear arises. Keep it short, positive, and empowering—something like "I am safe," "I am capable," or "I can handle this."


Take Small Steps: Fear often arises when we face the unknown. Take gradual steps toward facing your fear, and celebrate each small victory along the way. Over time, your confidence will build.


Reframe Your Mindset: Instead of seeing fear as an obstacle, try viewing it as an opportunity for growth. Each time you face a fear, you’re expanding your comfort zone and strengthening your resilience.

Conclusion: Embrace Your Fear and Find Freedom

Talking to your fears isn’t about eliminating them altogether. It’s about transforming the way we interact with them. Fear will always be a part of our lives, but it doesn’t have to control us. By addressing it directly, using affirmations, and shifting our mindset, we can reclaim our power and take control of our responses.

For me, the 18-wheeler will likely always be a reminder of the fear that once held me back. But today, when I see one on the road, I’m no longer paralyzed by it. I’ve learned to laugh at it, talk to it, and remind myself, “I am safe.” And through that simple shift, I’ve found freedom.

Here are other related articles of interest: 

What Would You Do If You Weren't Afraid to Fail? 

Embrace the Present: Why Today and Tomorrow Don't Matter

From the author:

To whomever you are, I write that this publication will encourage you to subscribe and receive updates as we dive into the thirteen successful principles to move life from a roller coaster to less than a ripple. And remember, doing so will be worth your wage.

I look forward to reading your comments below.


Todd

***Join our community for inspiring content that empowers you to achieve your dreams and master your mindset! Click here to receive weekly notifications. ***