Unmasking Fear: How Fears Are Our Gateways to Freedom
Author Guryan Tighe is known as the “Fear Technician” for a reason. In her book, Unmasking Fear, she delves into the complex nature of this seemingly paralyzing emotion, examining both its dark and light aspects. Guryan shares that developing a healthy relationship with fear will not only help you better manage your reactions and feelings, but you can also uncover the lessons hidden within.
“Fear is Courage Unrealized.”
This is an extraordinary promise made by the author, but she delivers effective strategies within each chapter. Of course, every self-help book promises a better life and a renewed sense of purpose. That’s a big delivery. In the case of this book, it’s less about the steps to overcome fear and more about truly understanding and dissecting one’s fears. I would have liked to have had a more step-by-step strategy, but I also appreciate how Guryan states that every person is unique. Therefore, it’s less about how-to and more about what is.
It’s an interesting exercise to “unmask” one’s fear and reframe one’s relationship with it. Most people “fear” fear, and I’m not an exception. But Guryan challenges the reader to consider how this emotion pushes growth. She shares four typical reactions to fearful triggers, along with both irrational and rational behaviors associated with them. Again, it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach, but rather a thorough examination of everything related to understanding and formulating a personal strategy to manage the four common reactions healthfully.
I especially appreciate the chapter on gratitude. It’s nice to explore how a practice of creative appreciation and self-love serves as a valuable antidote to fear. And to be grateful for fear is an interesting challenge as well. I also enjoyed the “Seeds to Plant”—key points coupled with intermittent practices, and mindful questions—in each chapter. After an incredibly informative read on each fear-related topic, these offer a moment to pause, reflect, experiment, and journal.
This is a must-read book for anyone tackling fear. Heck, aren’t we all? Well, then grab your copy of Unmasking Fear, and share your takeaways below.
Book and Images Courtesy of Smith Publicity, Simon & Schuster, Health Communications Inc.
