Being afraid of change and new beginnings is perfectly normal. No matter how much you want to switch careers, move to a new city, or start a new relationship, something holds you back. It's your fear that keeps you from enjoying life to the fullest and making your dreams come true.

Remember, you have full control over your emotions. It's in your power to conquer fear and make things happen. Here are five steps you can take today to gain confidence and achieve the success you deserve:

Analyze Your Fears

What are you scared of moving forward? Is it that you might fail, the financial insecurity, or criticism? Define the risks you're so afraid of and write everything down. Be realistic and have the facts straight before taking the next step. It's in our nature to exacerbate risks and their consequences.

Imagine the Worst-Case Scenario

What's the worst thing that could happen if you fail? Would you lose your home, your job, or your friends? Sometimes, all you need to do to kick fear to the curb is realize that the worst that could happen isn’t all that bad. Or, at the very least, it can help you see what you should put into place to avoid it happening.

Come Up with a Backup Plan

Come up with possible solutions for each scenario. If you fear financial insecurity, put some money aside. Create an emergency fund that you can rely on if things don't work out.

Do you want to switch careers, but you're afraid that no one will want to hire you? Start a side hustle to supplement your income. Assess your skills and find a way to monetize them.

Take a Break

Now that you've analyzed your fears and understand them you may merely need to take a break from everything. Sometimes, a break is all that’s needed to reflect on your situation and see things in a new light.

Plan a trip, spend a weekend away from home, or get outside of your comfort zone for a few days. When you return home, you'll feel more relaxed and have a fresh perspective.

Tackle One Challenge at a Time

Change doesn't happen overnight. Tackle one challenge at a time and have patience. That way you help minimize risks and control your fears. If you have a laundry list of things you want to act on, choose the most important one first. Once you’ve conquered that first hurdle, you can move on to the next important one. Take baby steps toward your goals instead of trying to conquer the world in one day.