Even in boom times change can evoke fear. There’s fear of the unknown, fear of loss, and fear of _____________, _______________. (Add your own fear here).

But right now, with the news focused on the recession and so many people out of work or losing their investments, anxiety is heightened. If you’re not personally affected, you probably have friends or family who are.

The problem with fear and the negative thinking that goes with it is that it makes it difficult to tap into your strengths, your creativity, your strategic thinking, your self-esteem - whatever personal strengths you have that help you persist and be creative when you are doing something difficult - and that’s what’s needed now.

BECAUSE the changes in the economy are not only impacting you; they are creating new challenges for your employers, clients, family. And to help them solve the new problems they are facing, you need to stay strong.

"The most concrete thing that neuroscience tells us is that when the fear system of the brain is active, exploratory activity and risk-taking are turned off." But when fear is not present, the exploratory system of the brain is active, free to discover, invent, create, and risk.

It’s always part of my work with clients, to help them to move past fear and tap into their creativity and resourcefulness. I find it really makes a difference. I encourage you to make it a priority to develop a daily practice that helps you stay grounded and positive.

There are a myriad of methods that can help you deal with fear. Here are instructions for one, Soft Belly breathing, a soothing meditation http://www.wikihow.com/Perform-Soft-Belly.