We fear the unknown.
It’s crazy but we often choose unhappiness over uncertainty. We will get comfortable in a situation we hate and complain rather than do something about it.
We fear failure.
I should go for that promotion. I want to ask that girl on a date. I need to join the gym. We want to try something new but we are afraid what will happen if it doesn’t work out.
“The most dangerous risk of all – the risk of spending your life not doing what you want on the bet you can buy yourself the time to do it later”- Randy Komisar
We fear public humiliation.
My friends will talk. My parents will be disappointed. My colleagues will judge me. We worry people will realise we aren’t as good as they thought we were.
We aren’t born afraid, we learn it.
You have what it takes. You have everything you need to succeed. It’s not about talent. Fear hinders our potential more than anything else. It’s all in our heads.
What’s interesting is our fears of what we can do and can’t do aren’t our own fears, but fears that we have borrowed from someone else. Why do we allow other people’s fear become our own?
How many times have you told those closest to you about a business idea, a job interview, a big purchase or a new relationship and they’ve given you that all familiar friendly warning? “That’s great but just be careful of…” or “this happened to a friend of mine recently…” or “have you considered this…”
Fear is contagious.
Don’t become a victim of fear.
I used to listen to other people’s fear and I would let it hold me back. I would think maybe they’re right: I am too young, money is really important, that country is dangerous, and so on. When I took some time to consider what the root causes of my fears were, I realised that I was carrying around a bunch of other people’s fears that weren’t my own.
Now, when I’m afraid I ask myself why, and if it’s for any of the reasons above I know I’m moving in the right direction. Success happens after you’ve overcome your fear. This is because you’re now open to opportunities and are in a place to accept them.
“You should never let your fears prevent you from doing what you know is right”- Aung San Suu Kyi
Surround yourself with people that will encourage you to choose uncertainty, try something new and become a better you. And next time you give advice consider where it’s coming from: A place of encouragement or fear?
Featured image is of a quote. Photo from Flickr.
