Recently I turned 70 years old. I say that to tell you this. I’ve been on an emotional growth mission for 40 years and I’m still a mess. The truth is, I am a whole lot less of a mess than before. Today my emotional system runs on more peace, rest, and joy. But to be completely honest fear is still a struggle. So when my soul is not experiencing peace, rest, or joy, I know fear is at work.
It’s not any fear; I have a specific fear. I call it Fear of Failure. Regular fear warns you of real danger, and that’s a healthy fear. Fear of Failure includes emotional pain and embarrassment. It’s the accumulation of a lifetime of mistakes, failings, and wrong choices. And, add to that some moments of public humiliation.
Working through Fear of Failure has paid off. It used to be a 6,000 pound fire-breathing dragon. Today it’s just a yapping chihuahua. Now, when Fear of Failure rises and tries to overwhelm me, I do the following:
- I pray for God’s help and wisdom.
- I ask my fear to please settle down. Then,
- I walk around, breathing slowly, deeply, and in a self soothing manner. (Walking helps me burn up fear energy.) Next,
- I repeat affirmations:
- I am a child of God.
- I am forgiven. And,
- I forgive myself for my past mistakes.
- Finally, my Spirit and the Holy Spirit remind my emotions of this truth. “You are not in charge. We are! And we want to return to peace, rest, and joy as soon as possible. So, Fear of Failure please settle down.”
Prayer
Father, help me run a peaceful system. I sometimes flood with Fear of Failure. Thank you Holy Spirit. You are my counselor, teacher, and comforter. Help my spirit and you, Holy Spirit, work together. And help all my emotions to work in harmony. You made me. You know me. Please bless me. Amen.
Biblical Insights
For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self discipline. – 2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT)