Fear is a natural feeling experienced by every human being, and in some cases it is a feeling that helps to keep us safe. If you see a vicious-looking dog coming toward you, for instance, it is probably quite wise to heed any feelings of fear and step out of the way. All too often, though, the fearful feelings that we experience and that hold us back in life have no sound basis at all. In some cases, for example, they might come simply from other people’s misgivings or scaremongering, such as the fears expounded by overprotective parents who perceive everything as a potential threat.
Next time you have an idea that you immediately dismiss out of hand, stop and think about why you didn’t give it your full consideration. Is it a fear of failure that is holding you back, or even a fear of success? Are you afraid of what other people might think?
When we feel afraid, we naturally imagine the worst possible scenarios, but often there is no logic in our thoughts. Try writing down the worst possible outcomes if you were to go ahead, but also consider the most likely scenario. Do some research to find out for yourself what, realistically, the chances are of your worst fears coming true and just how much more often others have met with success. The chances are that your fears are totally unfounded.
[Article first appeared in May 2011 issue of Family Times published monthly by Play-a-Round Golf. To receive your own copy of Family Times each month, please send your name and mailing address to steve@playar0undgolf.net.]
