Just last weekend, I attended an Author’s Marketing Event. There were so many interesting, informative and educational workshops and I learned lots.
But, one workshop, in particular, started off with the letters above.
F alse
E vidence
A ppearing
R eal
That gave me pause. How many times do our fears (false evidence appearing real) stop us in our tracks? We can imagine failure before we even embark on a quest. So, this thought came to mind. What if we could immediately erase “fear” (cancel, clear, delete) and replace it with a positive vision? I personally think that would change our entire gameplan. Just the incredible energy of switching one thought is extremely powerful and produces results.
We’ve all been programmed to think and act a certain way. We have filters that we view through. Not all of these are bad. Some are extremely beneficial and positive. But, anytime we let even the tiniest bit of negativity in, a seed is planted and grows like a proverbial weed.
So, I thought about a few ways to turn “fear” (false evidence appearing real) into “FEAR” (Fearless Eager Approach Reward).
Finding a quiet space of solitude to do some meditation is first and foremost the number one most effective way to release fear and gain a different perspective. There are some excellent guided meditations on YouTube. If you are a beginner, search for the ones that say “beginner meditations.” Of course, it would be wonderful if we all had our own private beach for practicing meditation, but the truth is most of us don’t. And you don’t have to sit in the cross-legged position on the floor to do meditation. You can practice that quietness sitting in a chair or lying on your bed. It doesn’t matter. The importance is going within and letting your own sweet soul help you gain a more open and more positive perspective.
Take a step back and look more objectively at whatever is causing fear.
Listen to some uplifting music. Music is an excellent way to raise our vibration.
Get outside in nature and reflect on the reality of what is causing fear.
It has been said that the opposite of fear is acceptance. There is a nugget of truth in that. Find what works for you, but most of all, don’t let FEAR cripple you and keep you from going for that pot of gold or rainbow.
There are approximately 3,600 books published per day in the United State. That’s a heck of a lot of books!
But, there will NOT be one book exactly like the one you write. Organizations can often be helpful in the entire frightening process of publishing your first book and I’ve listed some of the ones I know to be excellent below.
What do you do when you find yourself dealing with the fear of moving forward? I’d love for you to share your experiences, including any organizations that you’ve found to be supportive and helpful.
THE ALLIANCE OF INDEPENDENT AUTHORS
Take time to research active writing groups in your area. They can be invaluable for feedback and critique.
Writing and Music 
Marvelous positivity, Jan. Hugs on the wing.
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Always, my dear! Hugs back to you.
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I love this Jan! It is so hard when you get stuck in the fear. I am coming out of that phase and the steps you lay out are the ones needed to do it. With writing and life it is so freeing to step out of what is holding you back. Glad you shared what you learned at the conference:)
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Thank you for your comment, Denise. I often find that when I am inspired to blog about something like this, that it isn’t just for me. It is for everyone else. I appreciate you!
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I feel the same way when I get that inspiration! Glad you share that with us and I appreciate you, too!
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Exactly, Mae! Sometimes going in our head is as effective as physically going. Thank you for your comment.
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This is a wonderful post, Jan, and a reminder that we all need quiet time away to renew our spirits and vanquish our fears. I lean on prayer, but I also like moments for meditation and peace. I don’t have a beach nearby, but I have a beautiful scene I conjure in my head any time I want to escape there!
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Jan- whatca wonderful blog. I turn to Jesus to help me get through FEAR, tribulations, and roadblocks. He’s my rock.
Loved this, I’ll have to try meditation. You are so correct, there are many books published everyday, but non are like the one you write. Just like in life, many go through the same FEAR, but no one can conquer it the same way. So make your conquering unique to yourself. God made no mistakes, we are all a product of his great miracle.
Love you.
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What a beautiful comment, Tonya. It is so true! Love you too!.
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Good stuff. That fear is an advantage when creating characters, not for us, but for getting a relatable character into the story. Character who stall, stifle, and worry can be good… for a while.
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Great point, Craig. We need our characters to have deep-rooted fears of one thing or another. Thanks for your comment.
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An understanding of how it influences our own lives can be a great tool in fiction and our own lives.
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I am so glad you enjoyed the post. It really resonated with me and when that happens, I am compelled to share. 🙂 Thank you so much for stopping by and leaving a comment. Hugs!
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Wonderful, Jan. I loved everything and could easily relate to your points. Your definition of F.E.A.R. is perfect; Before your blog, I’ve never thought of it as false evidence appearing real. Thank you! ♥
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Excellent post, Jan. When I have a fear of moving forward I usually outflank the fear by going in a more roundabout direction. For example, stuck on a WIP. Write a short story. I must say also at my age, fear is very rare.
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You make an excellent point, John. By the time we reach our “golden” years, we pretty much realize that fear is a hoax. 🙂 If only I could have known what I know now when I was young. Thank you for your comment!
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I used to council that 99% of what we fear never happens and to ask the question, “If my fear comes true what is the worst that could happen?” Usually the fear falls apeart under that kind of analysis. Thanks, Jan
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This is so true, Jan. Every single word. Fear keeps a lot of writers in a stranglehold, unable to move forward because there is always the possibility of failure waiting to stomp on us. We have to learn to be FEARLESS. Bold, Positive. Take what you want. It’s there so grab it. An excellent blog! Love you, sister.
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Thank you, sister. I appreciate your comment. We do have to learn to be fearless and take a leap of faith for what we want. I’m so glad you enjoyed the blog. I love you!
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You are so right Jan, about the nature of fear. It can damage our creativity, imagination, and productivity. Yes, there were great enriching sessions we attended last weekend. Along with meditation, I sit quietly in the early morning hours and focus on Jesus as I talk to him about my fears, and other concerns. For me, this sets the tone for the rest of my day and I don’t feel so nervous, rattled, or tense. Other times, I will sit on my front porch or take an early morning walk at the Dallas Arboretum, sit on a bench near a babbling brook and begin my talk. It is so refreshing!
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Thank you for your comment, Judy. Yes, the Arboretum is such a peaceful sanctuary and how blessed you are to live to close. What beautiful ways to start your day!
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