In last week’s post, we explored the essence of taking a leap of faith—what it means to step out, even when fear and excitement are both present. This week, we’re diving deeper into the one emotion that often keeps us standing still rather than leaping forward: fear. If you’re a Christian woman with ADHD, you might know this fear all too well. Anxiety, overthinking, and the constant worry about failure can intensify your hesitation. You know God has called you, but what if taking the leap doesn’t lead where you hope? What if faith “doesn’t work” and you end up disappointed?
Let’s talk about these fears, why they’re so common for us, and how we can take small, faith-filled steps toward what God has planned.
Fear and ADHD: A Perfect Storm for Hesitation
Fear has always been a factor in my own choices. Living with ADHD, I often find myself overthinking and feeling overwhelmed. Each decision can feel like it carries the weight of a thousand outcomes, making it difficult to trust any one path fully. And, let’s be honest, I like control. I want to know the ending before I even begin, but taking a leap of faith isn’t about controlling the outcome. It’s about trusting God, even when you can’t see where He’s leading. As we’re reminded in 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NLT), “For we live by believing and not by seeing.”
The Challenges of Taking a Leap
For women with ADHD, the fear of failure and rejection can be paralyzing. It’s easy to avoid what scares us when we can’t see the full picture. This hesitation isn’t just about doubting God; it’s often tied to the anxiety that makes every decision feel enormous. Fear convinces us that standing still is safer than risking disappointment. But faith isn’t about seeing; it’s about stepping out when you can’t see and trusting the One who called you.
When God calls us, He doesn’t expect us to have it all figured out. He simply asks us to trust. And if we look to Matthew 17:20 (NLT), we’re reminded of the power of even the smallest acts of faith: “If you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it would move. Nothing would be impossible.”
This is such an encouraging truth! God isn’t asking for a leap that’s completely fear-free. He honors even the small, shaky steps we take.
How to Overcome the Fear of Taking a Leap
- Start with Small Steps of Faith
God loves even the tiniest moves forward. Faith doesn’t require a huge, bold leap every time; it can begin with a small, intentional step. If fear feels like it’s holding you back, try starting small. Say “yes” to a small opportunity or spend a few minutes journaling your fears and praying over them. Remember, it’s the act of stepping out, however small, that matters. - Ground Yourself in the Present
One way to combat fear is by practicing grounding techniques. Breathing exercises can be powerful tools for calming the mind and centering your focus before you take action. When you feel anxiety creeping in, take a few deep breaths. Inhale for four counts, hold for four, and exhale for four. This simple act can help bring peace and clarity, helping you lean into faith instead of fear. - Use Affirmations Rooted in Scripture
The Word of God is our anchor, especially when fear tries to steal our peace. Repeat scriptures like 2 Corinthians 5:7 and Matthew 17:20 as affirmations. Remind yourself, “I am walking by faith, not by sight,” or “My faith, no matter how small, can move mountains.” These truths can help counter the doubts that arise. - Remember That Faith Grows with Each Step
Each small act of faith adds up over time, building a foundation of trust in God. The more we practice taking small steps, the more our faith grows, making it easier to take bigger leaps down the road. Think of it as spiritual muscle-building—each small step is strengthening your faith muscle, preparing you for even greater things.
Moving Forward Despite the Fear
If God has placed a calling on your heart, that’s no mistake. He knows you, loves you, and is fully aware of your ADHD tendencies to overthink and worry. Taking a leap of faith is challenging, especially when control feels like a safer option. But our God is good, and He’s leading us down paths that bring life, not destruction. He doesn’t want our busy minds to hold us back from the purpose He has for us.
So, what’s holding you back from taking that leap? Is it fear of the unknown? Worry that things might not work out as you hoped? Remember that faith isn’t about knowing; it’s about trusting. Trust that the One who created you is guiding your steps, and He’s delighted with every step you take, no matter how small.
Final Thoughts
Taking a leap of faith is never easy, especially with the added challenges of ADHD. But God is patient, understanding, and more than willing to walk with you each step of the way. When fear arises, lean into grounding practices, cling to God’s Word, and remember that even your small acts of faith are precious in His sight. Faith doesn’t mean the fear will completely vanish; it just means that, with God, you can walk forward in spite of it. Let’s take the leap together, one small step at a time.
Let’s chat!
- What fears have kept you from taking a leap of faith in your life?
- How does ADHD affect your ability to make decisions, especially when it comes to trusting God?
- What small steps of faith have you taken recently, even if they were scary?
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! Let’s build a safe and strong community of support. I look forward to hearing from you!