How to make space for fear without letting it take hold

As change makers, we an become overwhelmed and anxious about our place in the world, the impact we have, and the resources we have to create it. These feelings often stem from deeper fears, like that of losing what we cherish or even the fear of dying. This can leave us feeling stuck, disconnected, and unable to act.For therapist Agnes Otzelberger, facing these fears head-on helped her feel more alive and capable. She believes we can find strength by connecting with others, embracing creativity, and building a better relationship with ourselves and the natural world.When we ignore our fears, they can paralyse us. We can feel numb or powerless, unable to make decisions or take meaningful action. This disconnection from ourselves and others only deepens the sense of hopelessness.This conversation will help youExplore how fear can be acknowledged and integrated for personal growth and resilienceUnderstand practical ways to reconnect with nature, creativity, and community to navigate overwhelming emotionsAddress feelings of scarcity, stress, and paralysis in the face of global challengesHighlights[00:02:16] A breathless tightening[00:08:26] How we respond to hopelessness[00:14:42] The need for community[00:22:13] Survival mode[00:28:16] Managing yourself to care for others[00:33:21] Agnes' deepest fears[00:41:31] What Fearless Forward means to Agnes[00:43:32] Takeaways from Sally-AnneResourcesConnect with Agnes via LinkedInWork directly with AgnesConnect with Sally-Anne via LinkedInWaking the Tiger: Healing the Trauma: The Innate Capacity to Overcome Overwhelming Experiences, by Peter Levine30 Lies about Money: liberating your life, liberating your money, by Peter KoenigActive Hope: How to Face the Mess We’re in without Going Crazy, by Joanna Macy & Chris JohnstoneThe Wild Edge of Sorrow: Rituals of Renewal and the Sacred work of Grief, by Francis WellerBig Magic: How to Live a Creative Life, and Let Go of Your Fear, by Elizabeth Gilbert