Facing Your Fears After 40

Hey ladies! Let’s be honest: fear sneaks up on all of us. Sometimes it’s fear of failure, other times it’s fear of success, and sometimes it’s just that gnawing worry about change. If you’re a woman in your 40s, you’ve already weathered plenty of challenges in life. But even with all that wisdom under your belt, fear can still show up like an uninvited guest, keeping you from living fully or going after the next chapter with confidence.

The good news? Fear doesn’t get the final say. You have more power than you think. Here are nine ways to work through fear when it tries to slow you down:

1. Separate reality from perception. Ask yourself what’s actually happening versus what you think might happen. Facts first, feelings second.

2. Notice the triggers. Pay attention to what sets you off—whether it’s a certain situation, conversation, or memory. Once you know, you can start to take control.

3. Check in with your body. Fear isn’t just in your head. Maybe your shoulders tighten, your stomach flips, or your sleep takes a hit. Learning where fear lands physically gives you clues on how to release it.

4. Practice gratitude daily. Even writing down one or two small things you’re thankful for shifts your brain away from fear and toward possibility.

5. Tame your inner critic. If you wouldn’t say it to a close friend, don’t say it to yourself. Speak strength and encouragement into your own life.

6. Make a new connection. When fear rises, remind yourself: this moment will pass. Focus on the growth or opportunity on the other side, not just the discomfort of now.

7. Flip the script. Start with one recurring negative thought you often have and work on rewriting it. Over time, this builds a habit of seeing challenges as chances instead of dead-ends.

8. Breathe on purpose. A few slow, deep breaths can reset your body and your mind. Try starting the day with five steady breaths—it’s simple, but powerful.

9. Create a safe place. Whether it’s a cozy corner in your home or a calming picture in your mind, having a “go-to” place helps you regroup when fear feels loud.

Not all of these strategies will click right away, but the point is to START! Fear doesn’t disappear overnight, but little by little, you can quiet it and move forward with courage!

And if you’re ready for extra support in building confidence, strength, and consistency in this season of life, the Sana Vida Squad is here for you. It’s a community designed for women 40+ who want to feel empowered in mind and body while navigating real-life challenges. Doors are now open, and we’d love to welcome you in! Check it out here!