Stop Waiting for Fear to Disappear: How to Build Resilience and Make the Change You’ve Been Afraid Of

If you’re waiting to feel “ready” before making that big change, whether it’s moving abroad, switching careers, or finally becoming the person you know you’re meant to be — STOP! The hard truth is that the fear won’t disappear. It’s human nature to cling to the comfort zone, and fear is designed to keep you there. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to be fearless to take action.

When people hear about my adventures: moving abroad, traveling to over 45 countries, quitting a financially secure job, hiking alone in remote landscapes, or surviving the jungle in Brazil, they often respond, “I could never do that, you’re so brave!”. But here’s the truth: I’m not special, and I’m not fearless. What I am is resilient, determined, and willing.

• Resilient thanks to braving new challenges.

• Determined to live a life without regret and avoid wondering “what if?”

• Willing to embrace change, no matter how uncomfortable, to pursue what my heart desires.

Here’s something I’ve learned: Resilience isn’t something you’re born with. It’s something you build. It’s the result of taking small, courageous steps and learning to manage fear along the way.

The Truth About Fear: It Never Fully Goes Away

One thing I’ve seen with my clients, whether they’re planning to move to a new country, quit their job, or step into a new version of themselves, is that they’re waiting to feel “ready.” They’re waiting for the day when the fear vanishes. But let me tell you from experience: that day never comes.

I still feel fear every time I take on something new. Right now, I’m in the midst of big decisions like possibly moving abroad again and of course running my own business. And guess what? I still feel nervous. I still have doubts and experience anxiety, just like when I first stepped into the unknown.

The difference now is that I’ve learned how to take action despite fear and how to manage the emotions that come with it. Each small step builds resilience, making the next challenge easier to face.

Resilience Is Built Through Action, Not Planning

Many people think they need a perfect plan or wait for the “right time” to make their move. They spend years strategizing, reading, and planning for the moment they’ll feel brave enough. But courage doesn’t come from planning, it comes from doing.

Resilience is like a muscle. You don’t get stronger by thinking about going to the gym; you get stronger by actually doing the work. The same goes for the life changes you want to make. Whether it’s moving abroad, switching careers, or something else, the only way to build resilience is by taking small, brave steps now.

My Journey of Fear and Resilience

Here’s a bit more of my own story. I’ve been laid off three times from secure employment and basically thrown into the unknown, other times I suffered from burnout so badly that I quit a job without a plan, I’ve moved to a new country without knowing anyone, and made major life changes without a safety net. Was I scared? Absolutely, every time.

But with each step forward, I built resilience. Now, I look at new challenges differently, not because I’m braver, but because I know I can handle the unknown. And that’s what I want to help others do, realize that they don’t need to remain stuck and can embrace the unknown in order to live more fulfilling lives.

How You Can Build Resilience and Make the Change You’ve Been Afraid Of

If you’ve been feeling stuck, scared, or overwhelmed by the idea of making a big life change, here’s what I want you to know: You don’t have to wait for the fear to disappear. You just need to start building resilience, one small step at a time.

Here’s how you can begin:

1. Understand the Fear

What exactly are you afraid of? Break it down and address each fear with a realistic perspective.

2. Identify Your Limiting Beliefs

Often, fear is tied to limiting beliefs we hold about ourselves. Do you believe you’re not “good enough” to succeed? Or that you’re not worthy of the change you desire? Recognizing these beliefs is the first step to dismantling them.

3. Know Your “Why”

Why do you want this change? What will it give you that you don’t already have? Understanding your core motivation and values will help push you forward when fear tries to hold you back.

4. Embrace the Discomfort

Fear doesn’t disappear, and it’s always uncomfortable. The key is accepting that discomfort and moving forward anyway.

5. Take One Small Step

What’s one thing you can do today that will bring you closer to your goal? It doesn’t need to be a giant leap, just one small step. Maybe it’s making a phone call, filling out an application, or sending an email.

6. Celebrate Your Progress

Every time you take action, no matter how small, you’re building resilience. Take a moment to acknowledge that.

What’s Your Next Step?
You don’t need to wait for fear to disappear before you take action. The path to resilience and real change starts with a single step. What’s one thing you can do today to move closer to your goals?