Is it true? Is FEAR false evidence appearing real?
In the photo below, the place of interest is Palamidi Castle, an old fortress that was built over three centuries ago.
The fortress sits atop a high hill. It provides spectacular views of the town and the surrounding area. To obtain this highly coveted view of the town, it’s “rumored” that one must climb 999 stairs to the top.
If I’m honest with myself (and you), I was frightened. My fear did not seem like false evidence appearing real in the present moment.
If you haven’t figured it out yet, I’m afraid of heights. As far as I can remember, my phobia of heights has been with me.

How I Overcame FEAR & Did Not Ruin A Beautiful Vacation?
First and foremost, I was on a 35-day trip to celebrate my 35th birthday in Nafplio, Greece.
Heights or not, I was determined to make the most of my birthday vacay and create fond memories.
I embarked upon the journey across town walking down narrow streets. Discovering picturesque squares at every turn. Easily, I could have changed my mind. Instead, I chose to motivate myself with self-talk. I gave myself confidence and permission to face & overcome fear.
I made it to step numero uno or νούμερο ένα in Greek. Terrified, looking at the top of the hill where the fortress towered over the small city. I paced back and forth at the entrance. Gradually, the confidence from the self-talk kicked in.
I began my journey and came to a stopping point. Frozen by false evidence appearing real, I couldn’t go on anymore.
Suddenly, an angel appeared.
His name?
I don’t remember.
What does he look like?
I don’t remember.
Where’s he from?
I don’t remember.
But I do remember bits and pieces of our conversation:
- As a part of his physical regimen, he walks up and down the steps.
- He didn’t mind escorting me to the top and down.
- He vacations in Nafplio for a month every year.
With his help, I made it to the top of Palamidi Castle.
It was very rewarding and not as frightening as it appeared.
Indeed, some fear is false evidence appearing real.

The ONLY thing you have to FEAR is FEAR itself.
Franklin. D. Roosevelt
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7 Steps To Overcome FEAR
From this experience, I’ve discovered 7 steps to help me overcome fear or false evidence appearing real, which I’ve used time and time again.
- Identify FEAR. What are you afraid of?
- Face The FEAR. What’s the worst-case scenario?
- Devise A Plan To Overcome The FEAR. What are the next best steps to overcome the fear?
- Ask For Help. Vulnerability can be your strength.
- Tell yourself, “Yes, I Can.” Create for yourself empowering affirmations to boost your inner confidence.
- Imagine Yourself Conquering FEAR. Visualize yourself doing the thing you are afraid to do.
- Work The Plan. Put into action the plan you devised in step 3.
Download 7 Practical Steps To Overcome F.E.A.R. Worksheet
By admitting what you are afraid of and intentionally (and somewhat aggressively) carrying out a plan to tackle your fear, you can overcome FEAR.
A scene from the Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade movie illustrates “overcoming fear” perfectly.
In Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Jones faces a giant chasm. He could have accepted defeat and turned back. Thankfully, he chose to take a leap of faith.
Immediately, an invisible bridge (money/idea/resource/person) appeared.
In the words of the NIKE slogan, “Just Do It.” Just like my angel, what you need will show up when you need it.

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A Return To Love
Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us….As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others (read below).

The Fear of Success
You might relate to this—just like a fear of heights, you may be holding on to a fear of going higher in life. Who are you not to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous—especially as you step into your forties and beyond?
If you’ve ever dimmed your own light, questioned your worth, or pulled back just when things were about to shift in your favor, you’re not alone. That fear of success often comes from experiences we haven’t fully processed yet.
But here’s the truth: you don’t have to wait until everything makes sense to rise. You can begin now. You can pledge to yourself that you will no longer fear tapping into your greatness and strengths.
Liberation comes when you choose to follow a new set of rules—rules that free you from the fear of success and empower you to step boldly into the life you were created to live.
My Rules For Success
1/ Don’t Always Choose The Path of Least Resistance.
If you’re honest with yourself, you probably lean toward ease just like I do. There’s nothing wrong with wanting a life of leisure—but there’s a time and place for everything. Your biggest, loftiest goals are going to demand more of you—not just more time, but more effort. That’s the price of greatness. Choosing the easy way out won’t get you there.
2/ Possess Personal Integrity.
Stephen Covey, in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, defines personal integrity as the ability to make and keep commitments to yourself. Be honest—how often do you prioritize your loved ones, your job, or your community over your own health, ambitions, or growth?
It’s common, especially for women, to put everyone else first. But if you want success, you must learn to honor your own commitments too—whether that’s hitting the gym, protecting your peace, or pursuing your dreams. Success is built on self-respect.
3/ Build Your Inner Confidence.
You might think you’ve got confidence figured out, but deep down, you know there’s more work to do. Maybe people see you as secure—but inside, you wrestle with insecurities. That’s okay. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s progress.
Learn to unapologetically love every fiber of your being—physically, emotionally, and mentally. Show up daily as the authentic you. As Marianne Williamson quoted Michelangelo: “Every block of stone has a statue inside it, and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it.”
Your life is the stone. Your daily choices are the chisel. The masterpiece? That’s you—waiting to be revealed.
Has fear been holding you back from traveling internationally or solo?
The solution isn’t to wait for confidence, it’s to plan for it. You don’t have to figure it all out alone. I’ll help you turn travel anxiety into a step-by-step plan that makes international and solo travel feel doable. Your confidence grows when your plan is clear. Let’s build both. Let’s start planning your custom itinerary today.

I am very proud of you, you are a true example of what overcoming fear looks like. Keep living your dreams and know that your baby cousin supports you every step of the way. Love you
Your story is so INSPIRING and I’m not going to let fear control me anymore!!. The false evidence appearing to be real totally controlled my mind, life and kept me from accomplishing many things. Today on my 42nd bday I have to make a change for a better me and I have to start by: New ways of thinking, living and working!! Thank you.
Landa your testimony of fear is a blessing to me. What ever you doing.keep up the good work. I’m so proud of you Boo. Be safe and I love you so dearly. MAUH
Fear is the great teacher!
I have come to experience born sides of the Two Faces of FEAR.
I have been taught, Two Equally important life lessons:’
1. What to do
2. What NOT to do
NOTE:
Become a Progressive student in life, today!
I love this. I really live by this everyday and trying to teach my son the same ropes of life. This is very inspiring thank you cousin, we love you dearly.
Continue with the good work. We are blessed with your motivational speeches and encouragements
Thank you for sharing, beautiful message.
Hello my friend! Great to hear from you and know you are growing from ‘Good 2 GREAT!’ This post is indeed inspiring. Persist … the closer you get to your Purpose; your Divine Dream; the more fear will try to influence your decisions. But your faith is greater than the fear. One of my mentors helped me reshape my perspective on fear. He says fear is like a yield sign. It means pause and ensure the situation is not a danger that necessitates stopping. Then proceed with caution. Fear is actually there to serve us, but we should never become servant to it.
Powerful on so many levels. From the importance of silencing the fear and doubt voices in your head to the significance of taking one step at a time (moving forward). Thank you for sharing your experience and the beautiful view from the top. Priceless!
Thank you for your comment. Daily, I have to overcome fears (some new, some old). My plan is to eradicate my fears.
Hey my friend, so happy for you, can’t wait to see baby pictures
Heyyyyy Ms. Renee!!! Ha Ha!!!
Hey Baby Girl,
I am so very proud of you and courage. I knew you were fierce but I didn’t know how fierce. You wow me!
Take good care and my prayers and thoughts are always with you.
Congratulations, you could have told me! I consider you a sister/friend for life.
Vivi
Je trouve ça incroyable que tu ai pu dépasser tes peurs au nom de l’aventure
Bonne continuation pour ton blog
Merci!
I loved your true life experience and was inspired. Thank you Michelle, I knew you was adventurous but I know more about the extent of it!! Keep on trucking baby!! Katie
Thank you Ms. Katie!
Wonderful post! Fear is a huge hindrance in the lesson of life. I am glad, you are providing such insight and encouragement! So proud of you and your accomplishments, you’re truly an inspiration.
Thank you, Monica! It’s still an ongoing battle. I conquer fear each day. Fear of heights, fear of judgment, fear of failure, fear of success. As my post indicated, I’ve taken on the Nike slogan, “Just Do It.” Thanks again for reading and commenting.
Thank you for sharing! Proud of you Sis.
You’re most welcome. Thank you for reading. Madam Pastor?