“The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”
— Franklin D. Roosevelt, US president
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What do you do with everything that you could be afraid of?
There could be a long list couldn't there?
Maybe it’s something that affects everyone: Corona Virus, a terror attack, war, the environment. Maybe it’s something that affects just you: phobias, health, money, relationships.
One thing is for certain. If fear helps, go to town. Be afraid. Indulge in it.
But it doesn’t, does it? Has fear ever helped, anything, anytime?
No, fear is destructive – it hinders, it creates panic, anxiety, worry, sleeplessness, doubt, confusion, anger, and short term self-interest.
Fear is disabling – it removes your clarity and centred-ness, it removes your anchor and stability. It removes your ability to give a good account of yourself, to bring your full abilities to any situation.
Fear is contagious – it spreads just like a virus through you, and through your community. Give fear a little and it takes so much more, it spirals out of control.
Consider this too:
The lens of a problem seen through fear is always hugely distorted.
It’s ironic, but the nature of our minds mean that the fear of something is always greater than the reality of the thing we fear.
Isn’t that bizarre?
The thought about something we fear is more real than the actual thing. Hence Roosevelt’s wise words:
The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.
The problem isn’t the problem as we think of it. Fear is at the root of all problems.
So, if you only wanted to get good at one thing, get good at removing the power fear has over you. Develop the ability to not let fear grow within you. It can be there, but inoculate yourself: learn to not give it any attention, don’t let it become real.
Now:
Calm is also contagious, and yet highly useful. The opposite of fear, calm brings clarity, creativity and stability. Options. It gives you enjoyment of the moment, as it is.
Become so familiar with your inner sense of presence you get great at calm, you spread peace like a virus.
That would be a fine thing to give to the world right now.
When do you begin? No time like the present!