I don’t like to go to the dentist. 
It’s not that I don’t like my dentist – actually, he’s a great guy and a great friend. I just don’t like to go to the dentist – A LOT.
A couple of years ago, I led a retreat on Healing. In it we (including me) created covenants of healing. As I prepared mine, I had to admit that I hadn’t been to the dentist in ten years – yes, TEN YEARS. I know. I know.
So I promised to make an appointment the first business day after I got home. I did. And now Dr Darryl and I have a plan. I even have a plan with his office angels – they are not allowed to let me call and ‘fake cancel’ (those of you with similar dentaphobia will understand this trick).
Anywhooooooo… as I prepare to go see Dr Darryl this morning, I’m trying to remember everything I’ve ever written or read about overcoming fears, healing and being responsible for my own health by dancing with the monsters I meet (note – my fear is the monster here NOT Dr Darryl!).
How do you psych yourself up to do something you REALLY don’t wanto to do AND know you will?
UPDATE:
I just returned from the dentist. OF COURSE, not only wasn’t it as bad as I feared – it was actually FUN! Dr Darryl and all of his staff helped me feel like I was visiting their home to just hang out (albeit with my mouth wedged open <grin>).
Lisa’s Cheap Therapy blog 
I have a really hard time with getting shots or having blood drawn so I know just what you’re talking about here. It really is never that bad but I totally psych myself up for it every time. Taking deep breaths and realizing that it’s only going to be a few moments of my life helps to put things in perspective for me.
ABSOLUTELY, PP! am grateful to know i’m not alone in this phobia.ness. breathing helped me MUCH this morning, too!