I don’t subscribe to ‘one size fits all.’ As with most things in this life, ideas are subjective. I find this especially relative when it comes to self-help or as I refer to it, self-mastery. Sounds cooler. I’ll always say this: The most important work you will ever do in this life is the work you do on yourself. So, shouldn’t a life’s work include some creative and unique solutions? I think so. Here’s what I came up with: A ‘Dear John’ letter to Fear.

Today I found myself Googling “self-help ideas.” In return, I received a slew of list articles. All with promising headlines; however, as a long-time visitor of the self-help realm I did not find much by way of being creative. So, I returned to the Google bar and typed in “creative self-help ideas” instead. Again, I was met with disappointment. I feel like each list was a repeat of the one before. One article actually said to ‘wake up earlier to be happy.’ How is that helpful if you are already having a hard time just getting out of bed?  

You know that person that always over-stays their welcome and can’t seem to pick up on the social cues to leave? Ya, Fear is that guy for me. Only I actually gave Fear his own bedroom, complete with more than he needed to be comfortable. Seems odd I’d give a guest that is so unwelcome a place to reside within my personal space, doesn’t it? But that’s exactly what I did. I carried Fear with me everywhere.

As with any relationship that is one sided, at some point you decide enough is enough. I sat down at my desk, took out my fancy quill and ink for dramatic measure and wrote a ‘Dear John’ letter to Fear. It was time to break up and end this once and for all.

It took me a few drafts to spill my feelings onto paper, but even that process was soothing. Once finished, I framed it and hung it up on my wall as a reminder of my strength and intention to keep those ties severed. I’ve felt much better. Now when I feel Fear creeping in, I can remind myself that we ‘broke up’ and it makes it easier for me to set him down. He still visits, but now I don’t invite him to stay. Baby steps friends.

Now that Fear has moved out, I have so much more room for activities! It may sound silly to write a ‘Dear John’ letter to fear but at least it’s more creative than ‘stop eating fried foods.’ As if anyone could take my chips away from me anyways. Being a creative doesn’t just apply to art, I also find it super helpful when solving problems.

As I said before, self-mastery looks different for everyone, and it should, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. So, if you are tired of the same suggestions and the repetitive list articles promising you help, I would suggest trying this. It’s fresh, new and a creative way to address the nasty habit of carrying the extra weight Fear comes with.

Let’s Chat: I’d love to hear your thoughts! Did you find this helpful? Did it inspire you to write your own ‘Dear John’ letter to Fear? What are some of the creative ways you’ve found that really help you in times of stress and over-whelm?    

If you’re still feeling off and want some extra encouragement, please reach out. I’d love to send you a love note.

Bonus video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V80-gPkpH6M

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