Book to help you manage fear.

Many years ago I meet Dr Stephanie Burns at a time when she was undertaking her journey into Natural Horsemanship. After this journey she wrote her book "Move Closer Stay Longer" I would highly recommend it to anyone dealing with fear of riding. Here is an overview of her book.

Facing Fear with Courage: A Deep Dive into Stephanie Burns’ Move Closer, Stay Longer 

In Move Closer, Stay Longer, Dr. Stephanie Burns offers a compelling narrative that intertwines her personal journey of learning to ride horses with a profound exploration of fear and personal growth. This 126-page self-help book, published in March 2010, serves as both a memoir and a guide for readers seeking to confront and overcome their fears.   

The Essence of the Book 

At its core, the book chronicles Burns’ experiences as she embarks on the challenging path of horse riding—a pursuit that inherently involves vulnerability and risk. Through her candid storytelling, Burns delves into the psychological mechanisms of fear, emphasizing that fear itself isn’t the adversary; rather, it’s the inaction or avoidance it often triggers that’s problematic. She introduces the “Move Closer, Stay Longer” strategy, advocating for a gradual and sustained approach to facing fears, thereby diminishing their power over time.

Key Takeaways 

 • Fear as a Survival Mechanism: Burns underscores that fear is a natural and essential response designed to protect us. However, when it hinders personal growth or achievement, it becomes counterproductive.  

 • Incremental Exposure: The “Move Closer, Stay Longer” technique encourages individuals to slowly approach their fears, allowing them to build resilience and confidence through repeated exposure.

 • Self-Awareness and Action: By understanding one’s behavioral patterns in response to fear, readers can develop strategies to act despite their apprehensions, leading to personal empowerment.  

Why It Resonates 

Burns’ approach is relatable and practical, making complex psychological concepts accessible to a broad audience. Her personal anecdotes provide authenticity, while her strategies offer actionable steps for readers. Whether you’re facing fears in personal relationships, career decisions, or other life challenges, the principles outlined in this book can be instrumental in fostering courage and growth.

Final Thoughts 

Move Closer, Stay Longer isn’t just about horse riding; it’s a metaphor for life’s myriad challenges and the fears that accompany them. Dr. Stephanie Burns invites readers to confront their fears head-on, offering tools and insights to navigate the journey with resilience and determination.  

For those interested in exploring this transformative approach to fear, the book is available through Amazon and Kindle.

Embarking on the journey to face one’s fears is daunting, but with guidance like that offered by Burns, it’s a path that leads to profound personal development and fulfillment.