Working Through Fear

Fear. That paralyzing, destabilizing feeling that stops us in our tracks. As we know, there are several valid reasons for fear, most importantly to keep us safe from life-threatening danger or attack. But today we are discussing the fear that keeps us from reaching for our potential. The fear that ties our arms behind our backs when all we want to do is reach for our dreams.

Why do we place such an emphasis on things that should not be perceived as threats? We allow fear of small things, such as failing at a task, or being publicly embarrassed, to affect us as if we are facing isolation, desertion, violence and even death.

Famously, Franklin D. Roosevelt said “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself,” which is exceptionally profound, if you think about it. Fear itself actually makes us hesitate before we even act. We haven’t even reached the threat, the repercussions of our intended actions, and we are already shaking in our shoes. Therefore most of us never try.

Yet, how many people have you known who really went out on a limb to get what they wanted out of life? Whether they accomplished it or not. Do you think they looked like an idiot? Or did you admire them for having the guts to try? Probably the latter. Because so many of us are afraid to try, those bright lights that break free from this group mentality actually bring us hope, and inspiration that we might be able to do the same some day.

And we can. We just need to have courage.

Easier said than done, right? Don’t worry, it can be done. Remember, the word courage doesn’t imply lack of fear. Most people we call brave were terrified – but forged ahead regardless. And believe me, no one gets it right the first time. Google the words “famous failures” and you will realize that everyone you ever looked up to failed multiple times before finally succeeding.

That’s what we need to do. After a few bumps and scrapes, we won’t be so terrified anymore. We will learn things here and there, and build up our self-esteem. We will become more and more proficient and recognize how to overcome obstacles with ease; and eventually we will get to our destination.

I know we can do it. I believe in us.