For something that exists only in our heads, fear can really do a number on our confidence, slowing us down, keeping us from being the best we can be. 

What’s the best way to manage our fear and, ultimately, get out of our own way?

Today’s guest, Kathryn Langsford of Photos By Kathryn in Vancouver, Canada joins me to talk about how fear has paralyzed her in the past and the specific actions she’s learned to break free from its grip.

Kathryn, like most of us, has faced HUGE personal, financial, and business challenges over the years. She shares the wisdom in allowing herself to feel it (because let’s face it - ignoring it and pretending that it isn’t there simply does not work); then moving beyond just feeling it, we discuss the specific actions and methods she uses to avoid getting trapped in fear when life gets scary and hard.

This is NOT a discussion of fake it till you make it or any other toxic positivity “tricks.” 

We get right into how we manage our own business fears that inevitably show up so that we can see reality more clearly and make better decisions for ourselves, our clients and our businesses. 

If you have found yourself trapped in a cycle of fear and anxiety, then this episode is for you. 

Remember, feeling fear might be inevitable, but being stuck in fear is not.

In this episode, you will learn the value of:

• Acknowledging Fear - recognizing and accepting it rather than trying to escape it
• Focusing on NOW and addressing immediate actions to take rather than forecasting a worst case scenario about the future
• Slowing Down Your Mind when feeling overwhelmed and how to do that
• Reflecting on Past Successes and reminding yourself of past challenges you've overcome which can help you move through fear more quickly.
• Taking Incremental Steps when making big decisions and how it can help you be less afraid and make big decisions more manageable.

Timestamps:

[3:17] Kathryn acknowledges fear but focuses on what actions can be taken today.

[6:14] Reflects on past hardships, Kathryn trusts that she'll overcome this one too and focuses on the present.

[8:54] Hear how slowing down helps Kathryn identify opportunities.

[10:43] Fear is a red flag, and Kathryn reminds herself to focus only on today, not the future.

[12:27] Learning from feedback, Kathryn raises her prices gradually.

[15:13] Kathryn built her business through instinct and trial-and-error, learning from mistakes.

[18:41] It's important to take risks in business; fear can hinder growth and progress.

[20:38] Kathryn recommends grounding oneself in the present, accepting fear, and focusing on small, immediate actions.

Click here to listen!

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Allison Tyler Jones

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Kathryn Langsford

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Books Mentioned

James Clear - Atomic Habits