Does Anger Overcome Fear?
Transforming Fear Into Confidence: A Lesson from the Gauntlet

Sitting in a circle, I knew that three of us would be chosen to "run the gauntlet," a challenge involving two ex-Navy SEALs and a SEAL trainer who had been relentless with me all day. I was terrified of him. I’m small, and he was huge. It felt a lot like being with a horse that intimidates you. 

When my turn came, I had to cross the room, passing all three men, who each controlled a third of the space. The first girl couldn’t make it past the first guy. She was bruised and humiliated. Watching this angered me deeply. Seeing her treated that way fired me up, and suddenly, fear wasn’t in charge anymore. I was angry—and that anger gave me confidence. 

I crossed the gauntlet. The first two weren’t too difficult, but the trainer grabbed me. In a flash, I kicked behind his knees, bringing him down (he later needed stitches!). I finished. 

This experience taught me a powerful lesson: anger, especially when directed at your fear, can fuel confidence. Confidence builds on itself, creating momentum for overcoming challenges.

As my mom would say, "Get up your gumption!" We all have it in us to conquer fear. This tool can be part of your toolbox for overcoming fear, whether you’re riding or facing any challenge.

3 Tips for Turning Fear into Anger:

1. Feel the Anger, But Don’t Act Out:
   This is key. The anger you feel is energy, not something to direct at others. Think of it as a shield, giving you the courage to face your fear and take control of situations—like getting back on your horse. 

2. Transform Your Fear:
   Write down three things that make you anxious. Sit with those feelings, then turn them into anger. Ask yourself, "What would I do differently if I weren’t afraid?" Channel that anger towards the fear itself. (Be sure you're focusing on perceived fear, not legitimate dangers.)

3. Practice, Practice, Practice:
   Start small. When you feel anxiety, flip it into anger. Find something about the situation to feel angry about. As you practice this, try it when approaching your horse or getting ready to trot or canter. Watch how your confidence shifts.

When you combine this anger with knowledge, you’ll be prepared for anything. Use my free guide, The Ultimate Riding Contingency Guide, to learn techniques for managing fear when riding—whether dealing with a rear, buck, bolt, or spook. It’s packed with insights from 50 years of experience to help you stay safe and in control.



0 Comments

Leave a Comment


Hey there! I’m Elise Hittinger—Fear Slayer, Confidence Creator, and your go-to Courage Coach.

 
Once upon a time, I was that fearless kid riding deep into Angeles National Forest without a second thought. Then bam—life threw me a plot twist. A horse flipped on me, pinning me beneath it, and fear crept in like an uninvited guest who wouldn’t leave.

That moment tested everything. But here’s the wild part—I walked away with only bruises and a divine reminder that I wasn’t done yet. Fear may have stolen my joy for a while, but it did not get the final say.

Fast forward to a move to Kentucky, where the trails were calling my name. I had two choices: let fear keep the reins or take them back. Spoiler alert—I took them back. Now, I help other riders (and, honestly, anyone sick of fear running their life) do the same.

I make fear pack its little bags and GTFO. Whether it’s through hypnotherapy, NLP, or a little well-placed humor, I help people trade anxiety for confidence, doubt for courage, and overthinking for action.

So, if you’re ready to kick fear to the curb and rediscover the joy you deserve—I’m here for it. Let’s do this.

Contact

Copyrights © 2025 held by respective copyright holders, including Elise Hittinger.