How we handle fear often determines our success. I was reminded of this truth today when a client shared his story. He left a company because there was talk of a merger, and he feared the new company would let him go since they likely had someone in his role already. This reaction is common in merger situations, but what opportunities did he miss by succumbing to fear? Maybe they needed fresh leadership, or perhaps his value would have earned him a promotion. Unfortunately, he will never know because he allowed fear to dictate his decision.
Fear: The Barrier to Success
For decades, experts have asserted that success lies on the other side of fear. Many of us understand this concept intellectually, yet when confronted with fear personally, we tend to run from it. Fear can manifest in various ways, whether it’s in our personal lives or business endeavors.
A Personal Metaphor for Fear
When I think of fear, it reminds me of my family’s trips to the beach. The waves crashing against the shore symbolize fear. If we let the waves push us back, we’ll never leave the beach. To enjoy swimming or surfing, we have to jump over or duck under the waves. Similarly, we must face our fears head-on to reach our goals.
The Everyday Impact of Fear
As mentioned, fear can affect us daily in both our personal and professional lives. In sales, how many times do we avoid making a call or asking for a sale because we fear rejection? Fear can prevent us from pursuing a new career or promotion because we dread failure or worry about others’ judgments.
Confronting Fear: A Universal Challenge
We all have fears. The key is to face them and move toward them. Consider how we encourage our children to ride a rollercoaster despite their fear. Often, after overcoming their initial terror, they end up loving the ride and wanting to go again. We must apply the same principle to ourselves, confronting our fears with the knowledge that the outcome, regardless of success or failure, is better than not trying at all.
Take Action Despite Fear
Today, act despite your fears. Don’t ignore them; instead, use them as fuel to overcome obstacles. Make that call, go for that job, or boldly do what you believe is right, regardless of the potential for failure or judgment. Taking a chance can lead to surprising success and joy.
Conclusion
Remember, the only difference between being a fool and a genius is success. Embrace your fears, face them head-on, and let them drive you toward your goals. By doing so, you’ll find that the rewards of confronting fear far outweigh the temporary comfort of avoiding it.
