As we talked about in a recent post (Beware of the ‘F’ Word), fear holds us all back, whether it is from the next position or doing well in your current one. What can we all do to recognize our fears, put them in the proper place, create solutions for what scares us most, and even use it as career–boosting fuel?

Where you put yourself into this mix will help you move beyond the same hackneyed patterns that you have been playing out, possibly for many years. Download the article titled, “Powerful Choices: Fear,” authored by business leader, author, and Employee Development Systems, Inc. CEO, Suzanne Updegraff.

As you are reflecting on the following types, ask yourself: Is this me? These are archetypes, and you may not fall squarely into one category. In one situation, you may see that you embody the thought patterns and habits of the Faker, and in another situation you may begin to realize that you are a Controller. As you let your fears go, you will find that more choices open up for you as a leader and successful communicator, both at work and in life!

The Controller

Controllers tend to accomplish goals. Unfortunately, it is at the expense of professional relationships, because their motivation is a desire to be in command of all areas.They feel tremendous stress when faced with a situation they can’t control. Controllers tend to live with the irrational perception that no one around them can get done what must be done.This is perceived as patronizing by others and conveys a lack of belief in the team, coworkers or subordinates. It leads to constant and inevitable conflict.

The Fake

Everyone sells themselves on something that they know is false, at least in some part. The Fake goes through the day feeling inadequate and undeserving of respect. This feeling is unconsciously conveyed to others and results in less buy–in from team members or customers.

The Attention Seeker

We all know one. This character will work hard to make others take notice, and actively looks to be judged – though they may be oversensitive to the judgment given.

The Prisoner

This character harbors resentment, anger, guilt, and other assorted personal baggage. Prisoners can be seen complaining about being trapped in their jobs, and they tend to catastrophize when they fail to capitalize on opportunities.

The Worrier

The worrier expects something unfortunate to happen, disrupting productivity and leading to dissatisfaction in their professional and personal lives. The Worrier is comforted by this toxic thought pattern and a fear of success is often toggled with their worry. What a combination!

The Victim

Victims tend to attribute their problems externally. Rather than saying, “I failed to avoid this mess,” victims say, “Responsibility for this mess cannot be attributed to me.” The focus and subsequent effort is put squarely on avoiding any potential blame. Any time spent on blame (especially blaming others) is wasted energy that should be spent on finding solutions and moving ahead.

By dealing with fears head on, we can more quickly and effectively develop productive, positive behaviors. Increasing self–acceptance, reducing the fear of failure, taking responsibility, and improving our confidence can reduce the emotions that attach themselves to fear and help us aspire to transcendent performance.

To learn more about freeing yourself from the influence of fear, download the article titled, “Powerful Choices: Fear,” authored by business leader, author, and Employee Development Systems, Inc. CEO, Suzanne Updegraff.

Eleanor Roosevelt“You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing which you think you cannot do.”

*Fear types were summarized from Face It (Amacom, by Art Horn).