I help my clients understand, and I practice in my own life, the importance of having dreams and creating visions. What I have come to realize, though, is there is one key obstacle that stands in the way of making our dreams come true and our visions a reality: Fear is the biggest inhibitor of success. It looms like a mountain in our hearts. Some examples: fear of failure, fear of success, fear of rejection, fear of being alone and inherited fears passed down from our parents. I want to discuss a few ideas that can help you climb over that mountain of fear inside you.

First, let's discuss what fear can take away from us. Can you recall a time in your life where fear hindered you from reaching your full potential? What about in grade school when you did something just to fit in but you knew you shouldn't? How about fear of going to the gym? Maybe there was a time where you wanted to start a business or make a financial move. You might be kicking yourself today for not trying these things. Is there any other time where fear stopped you from getting what you really wanted? I believe that it's important to make calculated decisions, but fear should not hinder your plans. You must reach for your dreams, challenge yourself and climb over adversity. The strongest possible force is an individual that is determined to rise.

I have found several action steps that can be useful in overcoming fears.

Step 1: Recognize your fears.

By doing this, you can identify areas in your life that are not being allowed to blossom. Recognize these fears, speak to them and tell them your intentions.

Step 2: Know what you want.

I write down what I want, and I read my list before bed. When you know what you want from life, it's easy to say no to the things you don't want. Sometimes when people ask if I want to do something, I just check my list of things I want in life, and if this doesn't fit with my goals, I politely decline.

Step 3: Change the way you look at things, because then the things you look at will change.

Instead of looking at a tough financial situation, a poor fitness level, or other obstacles in your life with the mentality of defeat, speak to those fears and remind them who they're messing with. No negative self-talk. Speak with a victor's words.

Step 4: Have faith.

I know this is easier said than done, but there is no other way. A mentor of mine once told me that 90 percent of the stuff we worry about will never happen, and the other 10 percent you can't do anything about anyway.

Believe that you can climb that mountain of fear and succeed at any endeavor. Do your best in life to constantly strive to reach your full potential. You were not put on this Earth to be average. Nothing in this beautiful world is average. Remember you have a destiny to fulfill and goals to achieve. Climb that mountain of fear and look back victoriously.

For more assistance, contact Troy Fontana at 331-6918 or e-mail getfit@fontanafitness.com

Troy Fontana owns Fontana Fitness in Sparks.