The Only Way (I Know) to Overcome Fear

How to use fear to beat fear.

I won’t lie; I’m afraid all the time. Sometimes I’m afraid of what people will think about me. Sometimes I’m afraid I will fail at my job. Countless times I’ve been afraid to talk to a girl. Regardless of how much I study, I’m afraid every time I invest money in the stock market. And the list goes on and on and on.

To conquer my fear, I use a technique that has served me well so far.

I imagine myself 30 years down the road, looking back at my life. Instantly, a greater fear overcomes me; I don’t want to look back feeling regretful I didn’t try.

It’s almost funny how you can use fear to defeat fear. Next time you feel hesitant remind yourself that, even though the task at hand might seem daunting, letting life slip by you will be unbearable.

Don’t let your fear lead to remorse. Use it for motivation. Fear is the cue that you have the opportunity to experience something new, to learn, to gain self-awareness.

And do yourself a favor. No matter what... you should always talk to the girl.

Fear does not prevent death. It prevents life.

- Naguib Mahfouz

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