Overcoming Fear

This morning I got stuck in an elevator…

I have struggled with claustrophobia for years. I would break out in a sweat and feel my heart race anytime I was in a confined space. I knew I would find it challenging when I moved from a house in the suburbs to a high-rise in Manhattan since the elevator would be part of my daily life. I had to manage my fear.

On a recent trip to Malta, my husband convinced me to walk through underground catacombs. Many parts of the catacombs were so tiny that you had to crouch down to get through, but I set my mind to going in figuring that they have been around for 6,000 years so the chances of them collapsing today would be unlikely! Inside was fascinating and incredible. I discovered that I could enjoy the experience and not let my fear hold me back.

Fast forward to this morning….

After my outdoor workout, I entered the elevator from the lobby and hit 39 to get to my floor. On the 31st floor, the elevator hesitated and when the screen showed the 32nd floor it also flashed “OS” (out of service) and stopped. I called the front desk to get help. I was stuck, living one of my worst fears, but realized that I had a choice. I could either let my anxiety take over or I could acknowledge that I am safe and will be ok. I chose the latter.

After I made that choice, I noticed how quiet it was in the elevator and the white noise from the fan soothed me. I closed my eyes and practiced deep breathing. I relaxed. Then I took the opportunity to call my husband, check my emails, and make a to-do list. Surprisingly, the longer I was in the elevator, the more peaceful I became and then I started to recognize that this was a huge win for me.

Thirty-eight minutes into the ordeal, the doors were pried open, and sure enough, I was stuck in between floors. Eventually, I jumped out and after thanking the mechanic, I got in the next elevator going up!

The photos I have included in this post are when I was stuck between floors and when I finally entered my apartment. When I walked through my door I told myself that I am not claustrophobic – I AM BRAVE! I am in control of my fears, they are not in control of me.

It ended up being a great morning. Choose to be brave.