Acrophobia: How To Overcome A Fear Of Heights

Have you ever wondered how some individuals seem to effortlessly move up a ladder, physical (mountains) or theoretical (corporate, optimistic, team), as if a hidden force is providing assistance while others give up?

You are not alone.  

Each day, we all want to become a better version of ourselves. Love every facet of life, be confident, and have endless compliments.   

One of the fundamental problems is the lack of ability to switch focus when looking up and looking down.

The macro (big vision - looking up) can affect the micro (day-to-day actions - looking down).

I get it, during the day, you are sick and tired of taking that next step, when it is gigantic, and you don’t want to repeat again because of the failed attempts and panic attacks.

Here are five simple steps you need to implement to overcome the fear of heights:

Step One.

Awareness.

Ask yourself “why?” and “what is holding me back?”. Remove any detractors you may have. Getting rid of snakes will put you in a safe place to install a ladder.

Step Two.

Research and exposure.

Study the best to find out where your foot should be. How to be calm and not shake your hands. What skills you need.

Look at pictures from the point of view of someone on a high mountain. Watch success story videos of 9 to 5 employees who became a CEO and founder. Have your friend hold your hand as you are taking the first steps. Talk with a family member to channel your focus on something positive. 

Yes, you will tread softly. However, overtime it does not bother you and experiencing it will reduce anxiety.

Step Three. 

Micro manage until macro becomes true.

Once you know your vision (macro). You need to put blinders on and focus on your day-to-day, step-by-step actions (micro).

One thing at a time.

For example, your feet are a byproduct of your core, lungs, hips, in taking every step.

Core -- balance and stability has an effect.  

Lungs -- stamina has an effect.

Hips -- biomechanics have an effect.

I say this because, the better base you have, the quicker you rest, recover, and the more self-assurance you have. 

Start with one thing and complete it.

Focus on a day, two, or three days and self-audit for a week.

Aim to have a great month and analyze the year.

When it is time to execute on the micro (even if it is small), blockout the noise and pay attention to the task at hand.

When it is time to reflect on the macro, focus on your ladder, mountain, or career.  

Step Four.

Feedback loop.

You know your body, mind, and emotions better than anyone else.

Have a look within what you have done for the past day, week, or month.

Always ask if you challenged and stretched yourself. 

Do you need support?

Should you take it down a notch?

Are you having fun?

Did you address your wants and needs?

Step Five.

Go back to step one and repeat until you have no fear of heights.

Once you architect and engineer your climb, soon your next step will feel like a breeze. 

-Arthur