I can't help but refer to Steve Pavlina and his post on fear titled "Whatever You Fear, You Must Face" where he mentions that almost everyone is born with the same fear of uncertainty. Only a few grope in the dark of the unknown. No one really likes to take risks. Yet, some people do. Invariably, it's these people who are the happiest.

The fearless are happy, more often than not. As Steve expertly points out in his post, facing fear increases your consciousness. In turn, this increased consciousness makes you alert to your actions and helps you to stay focused on the tasks at hand.

One of the simple solutions to face fear and stay happy, historically, has always been doing exactly what you fear. Push yourself to the point where you'd not have gone if there was no pressure on you.

Personally, I conquer my fear using fun activities that still take courage to perform. Examples include -- but are not limited to -- bungee jumping, sky diving, Swimming (especially if you fear water), climbing up dizzying heights, etc.

Once you get used to taking small incremental risks, fear can be subdued.