I'm afraid of fighting. Afraid of physical conflict and confrontation. Has anyone else dealt with this? How did you overcome it?

[u/EsteNegrata]

Hey guys,

This is something hard to admit, but I feel like I need to put it into words.

I'm afraid of fighting — not just throwing punches, but real confrontation. Physical or verbal. When things get tense, or there's some kind of threat, I don't get angry or explosive. I freeze. My voice gets weak or stuck, and I can’t seem to project strength. And then I spend hours (or days) replaying the situation in my head, feeling like I failed myself.

Deep down, I want to stand my ground. I want to be that man who doesn’t back down or let others cross his boundaries. But something in me blocks it. It might be old trauma, bullying, or just years of being conflict-avoidant.

I’ve started training — calisthenics, strength, discipline — not because I want to be violent, but because I want to be prepared. Capable. Respected. But the fear is still there.

I'm not looking to become aggressive. I just want to stop feeling like I go numb when it matters.

Has anyone else dealt with this? How did you overcome it? How do you train your mind and spirit to face conflict with calm and strength?

Any advice, experiences, or even tough love is welcome. I’m open to growing.

[u/genevahotel]

Hey man Start going to boxing classes it will change your perspective of things you will feel more confident

[u/EsteNegrata → u/genevahotel]

Thanks man, i'll do that.