If there is one emotion that we all fall prey to at some point of time, it is fear. While fear can be a good thing since it motivates us into action, too much fear can have exactly the opposite effect, paralyzing us into inaction.

The best way of defeating fear is by building your self-confidence, by having the belief that you will be able to deal with the situation come what may. You have to feel assured - being assured helps you to take control of the situation and take steps that will help you to deal with it. Very often, in times of crisis, you will see someone who is positive and confident looking, and who can very easily take charge of the situation. You should therefore see what steps you can take to exhibit the same kind of self-confidence and assurance.

The first step in overcoming fear is to confront them. While this may be traumatic, you should assure yourself that you are only trying to prepare yourself mentally. What is it that you are afraid about the most? Losing your job, financial insecurity, a failed marriage? You need to list and confront each one of your fears. Make sure that you are being realistic and not paranoid about the situation. One bad remark from your boss does not mean that you are going to be fired and just because your spouse has not returned your calls for one day does not mean your marriage is in danger. If you have enough reasons to believe a situation is bad, then your fears may be genuine.

Once you have listed your fears, you need to think of the steps that you can take to avoid your fears turning into reality. Speak to your boss about rectifying the situation and ask him how you can improve your performance on the job to be able to retain it. Plan a budget, start cutting down on expenses and save money so that your financial future can be secure. Speak to your spouse about going for counseling. If there is nothing that you can do about the situation, you can then consider what the worst possible scenario can be and think of the steps that you will need to take.

By being aware of the consequences, you will be prepared mentally to face it. In fact, you will now have the self-confidence of being able to take the steps necessary to deal with the situation and make the best out of it. You have to remember that it is this mental strength that will decide how you act in a given situation. If you are prepared for every possibility, you will remain calm even under the most trying circumstances. If you have not even thought of your fears, even the smallest mishap may make you feel as though the situation is out of control.

Only by facing your fears and by being prepared for the consequences, can you regain your assurance and aim confidently for success in your life.