Embracing Fear: Why You Should "Do It Scared"
Fear. It's a powerful emotion that can hold us back from pursuing our dreams, taking risks, and living our best lives. But what if instead of letting fear paralyze us, we embraced it? What if we chose to "do it scared" and step outside of our comfort zones? In this blog post, we'll explore why doing things scared can be one of the most empowering decisions you'll ever make.
1. Fear is a Sign of Growth
When we feel fear, it often means that we're on the brink of something big. Brene Brown, a renowned researcher in vulnerability and courage, suggests in her book "Daring Greatly" that embracing vulnerability is essential for experiencing true growth and connection. Whether it's starting a new job, launching a business, or pursuing a passion project, fear is a natural response to stepping into the unknown. Instead of seeing fear as a roadblock, view it as a sign that you're pushing yourself beyond your limits and expanding your comfort zone.
2. Courage is Action in the Face of Fear
Courage isn't the absence of fear; it's taking action despite feeling afraid. Susan David, a psychologist and author of "Emotional Agility," emphasizes the importance of harnessing difficult emotions like fear to fuel personal growth and resilience. By embracing the mantra of "do it scared," you acknowledge that fear is a part of the journey but refuse to let it dictate your decisions. When you choose to move forward despite your fears, you build resilience, confidence, and a sense of empowerment that propels you toward your goals.
3. Growth Happens Outside of Your Comfort Zone
It's easy to stay within the confines of what feels safe and familiar, but true growth happens when we venture into uncharted territory. The field of positive psychology, as pioneered by researchers like Martin Seligman and Barbara Fredrickson, explores the importance of mindset and resilience in overcoming challenges. By challenging yourself to "do it scared," you open yourself up to new experiences, opportunities, and perspectives that wouldn't be possible otherwise. Every time you push past your fears, you discover just how capable and resilient you truly are.
4. Failure is a Stepping Stone to Success
Failure is an inevitable part of any journey, but it's how we respond to failure that determines our ultimate success. Personal development literature, including works by authors such as Tony Robbins, emphasizes the importance of facing fear head-on and taking decisive action in pursuit of one's goals. When you "do it scared," you accept that failure is a possibility but refuse to let it deter you from pursuing your dreams. Instead of viewing failure as a setback, see it as a valuable learning experience that propels you closer to your goals.
5. Regret is the Real Enemy
At the end of the day, it's not the things we've tried and failed at that haunt us; it's the opportunities we didn't seize due to fear. Regret is a far greater enemy than failure because it lingers long after the moment has passed. By embracing the mindset of "do it scared," you free yourself from the shackles of regret and empower yourself to live a life filled with purpose, passion, and possibility.
Conclusion: Embrace the Fear, Seize the Opportunity
In a world that often tells us to play it safe, daring to "do it scared" is a radical act of self-liberation. So the next time you find yourself hesitating, remember that fear is not your enemy; it's your greatest ally on the path to growth, fulfillment, and success.
Are you ready to embrace fear and "do it scared"? The journey may be daunting, but the rewards are well worth it.
- Shalyn DennisonBrene Brown, "Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead."
Susan David, "Emotional Agility: Get Unstuck, Embrace Change, and Thrive in Work and Life."
Martin Seligman, "Authentic Happiness: Using the New Positive Psychology to Realize Your Potential for Lasting Fulfillment."
Barbara Fredrickson, "Positivity: Top-Notch Research Reveals the Upward Spiral That Will Change Your Life."
Tony Robbins, "Awaken the Giant Within: How to Take Immediate Control of Your Mental, Emotional, Physical and Financial Destiny!"
Mel Robbins, "The 5 Second Rule: Transform your Life, Work, and Confidence with Everyday Courage."
Jocko Willink, "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win."
