What is Fear Anyway?

Written by: By Mario Anthony Salvi

Let’s face it: fear is the number one thing that stops most people from achieving their goals.

Although fear can be a healthy response to some real-life situations and dangers—such as muggers, bears or fires—in most cases, fear is a response to the worry and uncertainty we conjure up in our imaginations. What is fear anyway? Encarta defines fear as: “an unpleasant feeling of anxiety or apprehension caused by the presence or anticipation of danger.” The second definition is: “an idea, thought, or other entity that causes feelings of fear.” In any definition of fear, the key word is: “feeling.” Actually, fear is usually nothing more than misguided feelings, based on a misuse of the imagination you were given.

To overcome your fears, first you need to understand the way your fears are coloring your perception of the world, and how that perception is affecting your reality. You must understand where your fears are showing up in your life, and how they’re stopping you from achieving your goals. If you truly want to turn your dreams into reality: you must step out in front of the fears that are limiting you, you must take the risk to move outside your comfort zone, you must move yourself from the unconscious to the conscious. Acknowledge your fears, but don’t focus on them. If you’re willing to identify your fears, acknowledge how they’re stopping you in your life and work to overcome them without avoiding them—you will unlock the door to a successful life.

People don’t become heroes because they have no fears; people become heroes because they face their fears and move beyond them. Every time you see a dark door that you’re afraid to open because it might be dangerous, face your fear and open it: success lies waiting just inches away, on the other side. When you walk through that door, you will become the hero of your own story.