This archive report was first published on 4 August 2019.
As Benjamin Franklin once said, 'the only certainties are death and taxes.' However, he failed to consider the impact of fear, which is a common experience for many entrepreneurs.
But what defines you is how you face it. By shifting your perspective, you can get many of those fears under control.
Here are some tips to help you master fear and leverage it to your advantage.
Firstly, don't avoid your fear - leverage it. Fear exists to keep us safe, and there's a reason we don't jump out of moving vehicles. The only way to kick-start the prefrontal cortex and return to a state of control and confidence is to master fear and leverage it.
When making a decision, ask yourself whether it puts you closer to becoming the person you want to be or further away. Every action you take should stem from that fear, including whether to make a phone call or go to the gym.
By structuring deals so you cannot lose, you can seize opportunities that scared others. The tightrope you've been walking is only inches off the ground.
When you realise that, you can walk much faster the next time you're on a tightrope. Write down what you're afraid of, then prove it wrong. If you keep a journal, this tip is for you.
First, write down what you're afraid of. Next, write a rebuttal to your fear. Summon your inner defense attorney to build an argument. Jot down all the evidence that undermines your fear, even if you think it shouldn't count.
However, if you can't bear to face your fears, or you can't think of any evidence to the contrary, get a second opinion. Confiding in a person you trust can give you strength you never knew you had.
Each of us dreads an imagined worst-case scenario. The next time you find you're holding back on something you really want to do because of fear, worry or insecurity, do it scared. Jump in.
Put it into perspective. Ask yourself what would you do for the people you care about. What would overcoming your fear mean to them? How would it impact your life with them? Do it for them.
