Fear often comes disguised as logic. We rationalize and explain it away, convincing ourselves we aren’t ready, it’s not the right time, or it just wasn’t meant to be. But more often than not, what’s really going on is fear talking in our ear, gently nudging us back into the security of the known.
Consider how many times opportunity has presented itself, be it in the form of a job you didn’t think you were “qualified enough” for, asking someone out on a date, or trying something new because you’re just plain curious. How many of these chances did you let slip through your fingers, not because you couldn’t do it, but because you were afraid?
Truth is, fear is rarely a sign that something is not possible. It’s much more to be an indicator that it’s worth doing. Fear shows up when there’s something at stake, when something matters to you. When there’s an opportunity for growth, or when the outcome actually has the potential to change your life in some way.
Failure is never the tragedy. Not trying at all is what we really have to lose. If you go for it and don’t get the job, you’ll end up exactly where you started, only a little wiser for the try. If you take the chance and it doesn’t work out the way you hoped, at least you know. But if you never take the leap, you’re left with a lifetime of “what ifs.”
Life rarely if ever favors the cautious, but it does nearly always favor the brave. The leap doesn’t have to be a big one. In fact, it usually is a small step in the direction of what you really want. Send the email. Have the conversation. Apply for the job. Try the hobby. Ask the question.
Fear will always be with us, and opportunity will always knock. The only real question is which one you’re going to listen to.
Regular Rob 
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