Are You Excited or Scared ?

When new challenges, adventures or opportunities come into our lives, we may feel apprehension or feeling scared.  Really we are probably excited.  For example, I am currently about to go on a major trip.  It is a new country for me, new sights to see and in some ways I am anxious about what "may" happen, but really I am excited to experience new things.  Another example, you are starting a new job....excited for the opportunity, yet apprehensive about how it will all pan out...new job, new commute, new people.

When faced with this, I know for myself, I need to look inward and talk to myself about the meaning of the butterflies in my tummy, the nervous heartbeat, and the negative self talk that may try and take over.  These could be signs of being afraid, but could be interupted as excitement, curiosity, passion and joy.  Clarify the feelings you are feeling and move forward.

I have often admired those around me that seem to always be brave, and without fear, but as time goes on and I continue to have inspiring conversations with people around me, I realize that they too have anxious moments, they too at times are afraid.  It is part of our human condition. 

So instead of backing off, or backing out of that new experience, realize that the butterflies show up in both joy & excitement, and also in fear & anxiety. When I feel the fear, I remind myself that it may be excitement, and challenge myself to "do it anyway".  

What I have learned over the past couple of years is that framing the situation differently in my mind helps me to overcome the fear.  Saying out loud that I am excited about the new challenge, the new adventure, the new country, the new job helps me to shift my focus.  

The feelings of being scared and excited often elicit the same physical response in our bodies.  Don't allow yourself to be paralyzed with the fear.