MAKE THE LEAP

It can be tricky to go from being a naturally cautious naysayer to a fully-fledged go-getter, so start small. “Start with something as simple as taking a different driving route or trying a new food,” says Alison. “By changing your routine, you train your brain into accepting that change can be uncomfortable, but that it’s OK.” Your brain needs a few attempts before your comfort zone expands to take on the new thing, so you’ll still feel the fear for a while, but after doing something long enough you’ll no longer feel worried because you’ve handled it. You may still feel scared if you decide to try something else though, as every time you do something new, you’ll feel nervous – but that’s natural. Fear is part of the package; the only way to conquer it is to do what scares you. “Once you’ve overcome it and experienced how it feels you won’t go back to your old routine,” says Rebecca.