I fly all the time and I’m still a nervous flier, but I refuse to allow my anxiety and fear of flying to control me and prevent me from seeing the world (and furthering my career). Here are some calming techniques I utilize:
1. IDENTIFY YOUR FEAR
Is it the fear of crashing? Terrorism? Claustrophobia? I like facts and statistics and I have learned to comfort myself by consuming tons of favorable information. For example, a plane’s wings can bend almost in half without breaking. Take solace in knowing a plane can fly on only one engine should the second one fail; it can glide safely for quite a long time without an engine at all. You stand a greater chance of being bitten by a shark than being the victim of terrorism. You get the drift.
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2. INVEST IN YOUR COMFORT
Depending on your budget, you may be able to purchase amenities and services that can relax you pre- and in-flight. A plush eye mask, high-quality, noise-blocking earbuds, a cashmere blanket–little luxuries like this can be lifesavers especially on long-haul flights. If you are able to, try to get a comfortable seat; this might mean you have to pay for an upgrade or, better yet, first or premium class. An upgrade can go a long way in easing nerves and making your flight an enjoyable one.
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3. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF IN-FLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT
I get antsy on flights longer than 4 hours so I break my flight into segments by watching movies (comedies work best) to try to overcome my fear of flying. For example, if my flight is 8 hours, I estimate that’s about 4 movies. That number is easier for me to digest than thinking of 8 long hours in the sky.
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4. BRING A SUPPORT ITEM
Do you have a favorite blanket? Scarf? Picture? I bring komboloi (worry beads) I bought in Greece years ago. Most people who are afraid to fly fear the unknown. Having something familiar is comforting.
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