Cognitive flexibility is the ability to adapt to changing situations. To be truly resilient, you need to practice the following: X Research source Mental resilience is more than just a tough front, though. Bravery requires you to be “tough” when you encounter scary or difficult situations. I can take self-defense classes so I feel stronger.” X Research sourceĭevelop mental resilience. I can do research about the place I travel to so I feel more comfortable when I get there.

Instead, focus on what you can do to overcome that fear: “I am afraid to travel on my own. For example, “I'm just not brave enough to travel on my own” assumes that your fear is inherent and permanent. Your fears may also manifest as unchangeable and global.In this case, the only thing holding you back is fear itself. You don't have control of others' reactions, but you can control what you do. On the other hand, being afraid to finish writing your book because you're afraid of how others will judge it isn't really helpful.You might still feel a tinge of fear when you're up in the plane, but you will have taken all the actions that you can control. However, you could address this fear by taking lessons and learning more about skydiving. You don't have any training or skills in that area and could get hurt. For example, being afraid of skydiving when you have never had a lesson is a reasonable fear.

Take a good look at your fears and decide whether you think they're helpful or harmful. Some fears are legitimate, but others do more harm than good. We tend to be afraid when we perceive some harm or threat to ourselves (or others).

I will be brave