How to Identify Your Fear Response According to Ashley Paré

Whether you're moving into leadership, developing new skills, or reentering the workforce, resilience isn’t just about enduring challenges—it’s about learning to manage fear and overwhelm. Many of us, particularly women, are raised to prioritize others’ needs, which can lead to feeling overstimulated or emotionally drained in high-pressure situations. But resilience is a skill that can be developed, and it starts with recognizing our own power.

Ashley introduced the four common nervous system responses to fear:

1. Fight – Reacting with anger, defensiveness, or control. You might push back aggressively in stressful situations.
2. Flight – Avoiding, withdrawing, or procrastinating. You may dodge conflict or leave situations that feel overwhelming.
3. Freeze – Feeling stuck, paralyzed, or helpless. You might struggle to make decisions or take action.
4. Fawn – People-pleasing and over-accommodating. You might put others’ needs ahead of your own to keep the peace.

Understanding your default response is the first step. Once you recognize how fear shows up for you, you can shift from being stuck in fear to empowered and courageous action. Instead of reacting automatically, you can make intentional choices that align with your goals and values. By building awareness and practicing resilience strategies, you can move forward with confidence in your career and beyond.

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If you'd like to explore your fear response and take courageous action, connect with Ashley via her website at https://ashleypare.com/private-coaching/ and book a Own Your Worth® clarity call.