Two Forces in Every Life

According to John Maxwell, there are two forces at work in all our lives. These forces shape our thinking our behaviour, and ultimately our future. He said, “Fear is the key that locks the door to the resources. Faith is the key that opens that door.”

The Power of Fear

If we encounter a bear in the woods, fear is useful. The rush of adrenaline causes us to act decisively to protect ourselves.

Other sources of fear are not so visible or useful. This sort of fear lurks in the shadows and causes an emotional reaction. When that happens, we may not know what to do. And the anxiety that occurs can prevent us from taking action.

Often negative thoughts fed the fear. Such thoughts can be whispers in the back of our mind. We may not even recognize that they have spoken to us, but they can have a really limiting affect on our lives.

The most important step is to listen to your thoughts. When you feel anxious, slow down and ask yourself what’s going on in your mind. If you can understand your thoughts, you will be better prepared to work through your feelings.

The Power of Faith

Having faith in ourselves is a matter of choice. When we decide to believe in ourselves, we create the conditions that make it possible for us to overcome our fears.

If fear feeds us negative messages, faith does the opposite. When we have faith in ourselves, we believe that if we put in enough effort and have a positive outlook, things will turn out well.

Believing in ourselves even when things seem difficult helps us see the way forward. We continue to reach for our goals through hard work and determination. Faith gives us courage to overcome obstacles.

Ten Tips for Developing an Unshakeable Belief in Yourself

Just as faith in ourselves is a matter of choice, it is also a skill that can be learned. Here are ten ways you can build an unshakeable belief in yourself:

1. Recognize and celebrate when you do something well. Include all of the moments of your life, not just work.
2. Speak to yourself with the same kindness you would offer your dearest family and friends.
3. Admit when you are afraid and examine your thoughts. Then offer yourself a more positive message.
4. Surround yourself with kind and encouraging people.
5. Own up to the fact that all people make mistakes. Give up on the false goal of being perfect.
6. Keep moving forward. When you feel discouraged, take the next step.
7. Accept that sometimes life is uncomfortable. In fact, it is impossible to grow without difficult moments.
8. Recognize how many times you have learned and grown in your life. If you did it before, you can do it again.
9. Reach for your dreams even if they seem unattainable. In trying, you will discover strengths you did not know you have.
10. Make self-care your priority every day. Do the simple things: eat healthy food, sleep, and get some exercise.

Call to Action

The tips we included in this blog are only some of things a person can do to increase their belief in themselves. What will you do to build faith in yourself?

Your Friends,
The UpCloseTeam