I often read that the best way to conquer your fears is to face them head-on. My biggest fears (in no particular order) are flying, deep water and sharks. A recent trip to Fiji had me facing those fears head-on, whether I liked it or not. I usually fly with a friend or family member who will hold my hand through any panic-stricken moments.

My Fiji trip, however, was an organised trip for work, which meant I was flying with people I had never met before. So, rather than cry, breathe heavily and squeeze my fellow passenger’s hand, I had to sit in my seat and speak politely as if nothing was worrying me.

Next came the deep water and sharks. We were staying at a resort that looked out to two gorgeous islands. A snorkeling trip was arranged and we were sent on a charter boat, zipping across the water on the way to one of the “best diving spots in Fiji”. Before we got there, however, our boat driver stopped the vessel and had us all peer over the side into the dark blue depths. He informed us that this was the “shark diving spot” where you could see up to nine species of shark in the one sighting, including tiger and bull sharks. While my colleagues were nodding in appreciation my entire body started to shake.

The driver continued on to a spot 50m out from a beach on one of the islands, promptly dropping the anchor and announcing this was where we were snorkeling for the day. “So close to the shark diving area?” I timidly asked. “You’ll be fine,” replied the driver.

Just like the rest of my group, I was forced to jump into the water and wade towards the island. After watching the others don their snorkeling gear and head straight into the water, I decided that now was the time for me to finally face my fear of deep water (while knowing sharks were about). After a few nervous attempts I started to forget about my fears and instead started noticing the beauty under the water. Admittedly, I didn’t venture out as deep as other people, but I did stay out in the water for a good half hour – something I had never been able to do before.

I found that once I faced my fears they weren’t as horrifying as I had always imagined. It actually felt satisfying to have done those things.

What are you fears and have you ever faced them?