avatarMatt Legg

Summary

The author discusses the distinction between being scared and being afraid, emphasizing the impact of fear on personal growth and the importance of overcoming it to enrich one's life.

Abstract

The article delves into the author's personal struggle with fear, particularly in the context of self-expression through writing and video creation. Despite a strong interest in making videos, the author has historically held back due to fear. The text explores the idea that while fear is an inevitable part of life, especially when facing new challenges, it should not be allowed to control one's actions. The author distinguishes between the temporary feeling of being scared and the paralyzing state of being afraid, arguing that acknowledging fear and moving forward despite it is crucial for personal development. The article encourages readers to take control of their thoughts and not let fear dictate their lives, suggesting that confronting fear leads to a more fulfilling existence. The author also promotes their Ebook and other written works on the subject of overcoming fear and building self-esteem.

Opinions

  • The author believes that fear, if left unchecked, can prevent individuals from reaching their full potential.
  • There is a subtle yet significant difference between experiencing fear as a temporary emotion (being scared) and letting it dominate one's life (being afraid).
  • Overcoming fear is not about eliminating it but about feeling the fear and proceeding anyway.
  • The author suggests that obsessing over fears can magnify them unnecessarily.
  • The article posits that individuals have more power over their fears and lives than they often realize.
  • Self-talk is an important tool; sometimes, one must silence the inner voice of caution to trust in oneself and take risks.
  • The author shares their personal journey and vulnerabilities to connect with readers and encourage them to face their own fears.

The Difference Between Being Scared And Being Afraid

Photo by maskedemann on Unsplash

“Be scared. You can’t help that. But don’t be afraid.” William Faulkner

I’ve always been afraid to be open and share things about myself. Writing is the first time I’ve felt like I have a way to express myself. However, something is still missing.

I have always had a weird interest in making videos but I’ve never followed through. I’ve made some attempts at different types of videos over the years but nothing stuck.

I have the same feeling again. Although I express myself better through writing I feel like I have a calling to do something more. Again the idea of making videos comes back.

I’ve had a plan for a while to make videos to promote my writing. But I don’t. I think it would be a good idea and I have a desire to make videos but I don’t.

Fear is standing in my way.

Fear of what, I’m not entirely sure. If I had to guess I would say fear of being honest and vulnerable with the world and then putting it on the internet, forever. But I can’t stop thinking about it.

I have allowed fear to stop me and hold me back my whole life. Will this be the time I change?

There is a difference between being scared and being afraid.

I’m scared to share and be vulnerable, that is because it’s new and different and uncomfortable, and that’s ok. That’s part of life. The problem is I have let this fear overtake me and control me so I’ve become afraid. I am now sitting here at a sad little table with my sad little life because I allowed fear to win.

Feeling fear and going through with it anyway is the only way to overcome it. It isn’t comfortable and I still struggle with it, but the only way to get better is by doing it. What we find on the other side is much richer and more fulfilling than hiding away all day.

The more we worry and obsess about things the bigger they become to us. Our fears can get blown way out of proportion by allowing the fear to consume our thoughts.

We have more power and control over our lives than we realize. Our thoughts are the key, when fear pops up we have to remind ourselves that the sacred little voice in our heads works for us.

It’s there to try and keep us safe, but sometimes you have to tell it to shut up and trust yourself.

Thanks for reading, I wrote an Ebook, click the link for a free sample

Or click one of these links for other stories I wrote on medium

Life
Life Lessons
Self Improvement
Happiness
Self-awareness
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