To me, fear is the most powerful emotion of all. Not hope, not love, not faith but fear. If you really think about it, it is present in every aspect of our lives and we are constantly battling it. In our careers, in our beliefs about the universe. In love. In lack of understanding.
Fear is more than being afraid of something. It’s an entire lifestyle and frame of mind. In order for an emotion to control your mode of operation, it must first take root in your mind. It’s like a weed, that harbors its roots deep into the seeds of your brain. One that grasp each and every single ounce of good, faith, positivism, etc. that you could possibly have and destroys it.
The thing about fear is that it is no different than any other emotion, thus making it easier than you may realize to overcome. But when you’re afraid, it is as if there is no escape. To clarify, I’m not talking about fears that protect us; i.e. those that keep us out of harm’s way. What I’m referring to are fears that take more of a psychological root. The fears that keep us from being the best people that we can possibly be. That nagging voice in your mind that constantly makes excuses for why you have not pursued your dreams. That “very rational” perspective that convinces you to remain at a job that you absolutely despise. That “advice” from your friends and family that essentially shits on your dreams because it “makes so much sense.” THAT fear.
Let’s look at Merriam Webster’s definition of fear:
to be afraid of (something or someone)
: to expect or worry about (something bad or unpleasant)
: to be afraid and worried
Fear’s total definition is surrounded by worry, and lack of faith. I’ve always been a very optimistic person. But I’m realistic in the same breathe. It’s taken me literally years to overcome fear, and even still sometimes I lose. But the real loss is never ever trying and going for what you want. Let me let you guys in on a little secret, half of the so-called “amazing things” people think that I do, 1. aren’t so amazing to me and 2. I do afraid. But I do them. That is the key. To just do it.
The number one fear held by most of us is the fear of failure. But all of the greats have failed. And the not so greats. Newsflash: YOU’RE GOING TO FAIL TOO. Several times before you get it right. But so what?
Whether or not you’re a believer in a higher power, I think we can all agree that fear is a demon. One that sucks you dry, leaving very little in return but a series of regrets, lies and trusted reasons for “protecting oneself.” The only real purpose of fear is to keep you ordinary. Now I’m not saying that everyone should aspire to be the next CEO. My definition of ordinary does not depend on one’s professional status. It’s more of a lifestyle. How are you positively impacting those who are in your life? You can be a janitor, but will you be that janitor who is always complaining about your life, or someone that everyone remembers for making them feel good?
The choice is yours. You just have to CHOOSE to move fear out of your way.
Peace,
Shan
shantelljamison.com 