The Benefits of Fear

Before my recent surgery, I shared with my doctors that my biggest fear was saying something ridiculous while coming out of anesthesia. I’ve seen enough of those viral videos where people blurt out the most absurd and goofy things post-anesthesia, and I didn’t want to add my own embarrassing moment to the mix. Thankfully, family wasn’t allowed in until I was fully coherent, sparing me from any potential Instagram or Tic Toc fame. After all, there’s usually plenty of material to share without needing to be sedated.

Fear is usually thought of very negatively, but it can actually have positive effects as well. It heightens our awareness and helps keep us alive during intense situations. Professionals like firefighters, police officers, and soldiers often leverage this aspect of fear to stay alert and focused in critical moments. Their daily experiences with fear drive them to prepare extensively, train in diverse conditions, and practice life-saving techniques so that when faced with danger, their reactions are both swift and precise.

In business, fear might not be used in the same way, but it can still be beneficial. The uncertainty of the future can prompt us to examine current and future opportunities more closely. A bit of fear can prevent complacency, pushing us to stay on course. By viewing fear as a challenge or a signal, we can use it as a motivator for growth. Instead of letting fear control us, we can choose how it affects our actions.

It is said that more people fear public speaking than death. Yet, once they confront this fear, it often turns out to be less daunting than anticipated. Facing such fears builds resilience and a champion mindset. Whether it’s learning a new skill, making another sales call after a series of rejections, or stepping up for a new position, confronting fear can push us beyond our comfort zones and help us improve.

There are many ways out there to help deal with fear, and learning to utilize these skills can help. ?One is Cognitive Behavioral Techniques (CBT) that involves identifying and challenging irrational thoughts related to our fear. For example, if you fear public speaking, analyze and reframe thoughts like “I’ll embarrass myself” or “Everyone will judge me.” Replace them with more balanced thoughts, such as “I was chosen to speak because I’m knowledgeable about this topic” or “I’ve prepared thoroughly, and my input is valuable.”

Utilizing gradual exposure to confront your fear in a step-by-step manner can be very helpful. For public speaking, start by speaking in front of trusted friends, then progress to joining a Toastmasters group, and eventually speak in front of larger audiences. This incremental approach helps desensitize you to this fear and builds confidence over time.

Lastly, try mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Manage fear by calming your mind and body through practices like deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation. These techniques help reduce the physical symptoms of fear and bring you back to the present moment, making fear less overwhelming.

Ultimately, we have two choices: let fear control your life or learn to navigate within it. By reframing fear as a growth opportunity rather than an obstacle, we can evolve and expand our capabilities.