The good news is that if you can identify which fears are rational, and which are irrational, you can exert some level of control over them. Research suggests that the most fundamental trigger for fear is uncertainty. Regardless of what triggers them, all these fears may significantly impact your confidence in life and in the workplace. Social fears are also fairly common, and can be triggered by formal situations, public speaking, or the thought of being rejected. For example, natural conditioning can lead to a fear of snakes or spiders.

There are several common triggers for fear. This biological response to fear can lead to paralysis, preventing us from taking action. In addition to fight-or-flight, the “freeze” coping strategy of immobilisation may occur if we feel like we cannot escape the threat. This evolutionary fight-or-flight response ensures we are more alert to danger, thus offering us a form of protection. Neuroendocrine messengers are activated, causing physiological changes including increased heart rate and blood pressure, so that we are ready to handle the perceived risk. In biological terms, fear is induced when there is a threat to our wellbeing or survival. A simple method called “fear setting” will help you to define your fears so that you can embrace them and achieve your goals. However, fear doesn’t need to become a source of unmanageable stress and anxiety. Fear is unavoidable, especially when attempting to accomplish an important goal or embarking on a new project that requires you to take risks.

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