It is part of human nature to underline fear as a driving force for many of our actions and behaviors. Oftentimes, we isolate ourselves from others for fear of being rejected. We keep our dreams small for fear of failure and avoid life for fear of fully participating in its messiness.

We often live within the limits of what we think is possible in order to bypass our deepest fears. This new year, let's work toward taking back the driver's seat to live a larger and fuller life. And if fear and anxiety come along for the ride, then they better buckle up.

Here's a declaration to reclaim ownership over our fears and lead lives of courage and resilience:

Fear not feeling pain, because leaning into all emotions allows us to feel joy. Our emotions are informative and give us insight into who we are, how we perceive the world. We should not be afraid to show them.

Fear not being vulnerable, because living with an open heart is the center of all connection, relationships, and love.

Fear avoiding responsibility, because it's the foundation that allows us to take meaningful risks.

Fear thinking that the next moment and the one after that will be better because a life well lived unfolds one moment at a time.

Fear not trying, because achievement, integrity, confidence, and purpose come from doing what we've told ourselves we cannot. Confining ourselves to less is far more painful.

Fear not feeling loss, because loss means that we allowed ourselves to feel something deeply.

Fear not following your intuition, because it knows your path better than anyone else.

Fear not leaning into difficult moments and conversations, because that is where we foster truth.

Fear the search for perfection, because life happens in all its messiness and that's how we grow up.

Fear the need for certainty, because the unknown can be the beginning of something beautiful.

Fear being too comfortable, because embracing challenges means staying open to the ways in which the world around us is the pillar of all life lessons.

Break out of your shell this year. Abandon your fears. Be resilient.