While there are many constants in life, some positive and some negative, one rings true for many people: you’re going to fail. It’s a hard pill to swallow and for many, it leads to fear to even begin.

And thus begins a vicious cycle of fearing the fall and never taking the leap. We see it in friendships, relationships, and, of course, in boudoir sessions. Fear manifests itself in many ways, but the primary being rejection of who we are at our core. It comes in a little voice whispering doubts to our inner being: what if they don’t like what you have to say? You’ll be laughed at. Or, my photos won’t look good because I still need to lose twenty pounds. I’ll look bad in all of them.

Fear keeps us spellbound and hidden from the world, because what if we fall?

As a feminine embodiment coach, I help women push past those fears to become their true selves. It’s hard but necessary work, focusing on our inner workings and pushing forward despite that nagging voice. Some days are easier than others, but on the other side is freedom to embody every part of you.

Part of overcoming that sense of fear and anxiety is realizing who you are at your core. This involves identifying what you love, your biggest strengths/weaknesses, your dreams, and your inspirations. By identifying these portions of yourself and personhood, you’re able to be in tune with your body and mind and what it’s wanting from you. I speak a lot about listening to your body, and this is a perfect time and place to do so.

Once you’ve built an understanding of yourself and what makes you intrinsically you, focus on the inspirations in your life. I’m a huge advocate of having core groups of women in my life. Without one another, we don’t rise to the top. Identify the key, strong women who act as role models for you. Connect with like-minded women who will push you towards greatness and check in on you when you’re unsure of those fearful next steps. We truly need each other to bloom.

And finally, consider finding a mentor and being a mentor. Why is this two-pronged? A mentor for yourself will pour into you even on your worst days to remind you of your worth, vitality, and how your ambitions are worth reaching. And being a mentor will allow you to be a listening ear for someone going through their own challenges and difficulties. You may surprise yourself with how much knowledge you can pass on to someone else.

Fear doesn’t have to control your life, instead, it can be a catalyst to bigger and greater adventures. Blooming past fear into what awaits you is a lifelong journey full of difficulties and, ultimately, joy.

“There is freedom waiting for you, on the breezes of the sky. And you ask, ‘What if I fall?’ Oh, but my darling, what if you fly?” - Erin Hanson