What’s the Worst That Could Happen? A Game-Changing Question

Ever find yourself stuck in decision paralysis? You’ve got a big dream or goal, but instead of taking action, you’re busy imagining every way it could go horribly wrong. Been there. Done that. Got the T-shirt.

But here’s a little secret I’ve learned: asking yourself one simple question can help cut through the fear and move you closer to where you want to be.

“What’s the worst that could happen?”

I know, it sounds almost too simple, but hear me out. Our brains are wired to protect us from danger, which means they’ll often blow things way out of proportion. By tackling that fear with cold, hard logic, you can take back control. Let’s break it down.

Step 1: Identify the Worst-Case Scenario

Whatever you’re avoiding—starting a business, moving abroad, signing up for a marathon—ask yourself: What’s the absolute worst that could happen? Be specific. Will you lose money? Fail publicly? Get rejected? Write it all down.

Step 2: Plan for the Worst

Now that you’ve pinpointed your fear, ask yourself: If the worst happens, how will I handle it?

• What’s your plan B?
• Have you dealt with a similar situation before?
• How did you (or someone else) come out on the other side?

Spoiler alert: you’ve likely survived tough times before, and you’ll do it again.

Step 3: Compare It to Doing Nothing

Now, flip the script: What’s the worst that could happen if I do nothing?

If you stay where you are, what will life look like in a month? A year? Ten years? Is staying stuck better than taking the risk? Chances are, it’s not.

Why This Works

This little exercise lets you face fear head-on and see it for what it is: a protective instinct, not a prophecy. Most fears boil down to one thing—the unknown. And let’s be real, the unknown could turn out to be the best thing that’s ever happened to you.

Action Items

Here’s how to put this into practice starting today:

1. Pick One Goal – What’s something you’ve been avoiding? Write it down.
2. Ask “What’s the Worst?” – Define your biggest fear around taking that leap.
3. Plan for It – Outline a strategy for dealing with that worst-case scenario.
4. Ask “What If I Do Nothing?” – Imagine life if you never try.
5. Take One Step – Start small. The first step is always the hardest, but it’s the key to momentum.

My Challenge to You

Right now, take a moment to identify one thing you’ve been putting off. Then ask yourself, What’s the worst that could happen? If you’re willing to share, drop it in the comments—I’d love to cheer you on!