Fear is a performance killer. Fear tells us we’re not good enough. Even confidence is shattered by fear. Only courage can stand up to it. Courage gets us moving in spite of fear.
But fear has a secret. It needs idleness. Mountain climbers only feel fear when they stop climbing. Excitement, engagement, and flow are in the climb—in the active pursuit. Growth is in the climb. Fulfillment is in the climb. Fear grows from idleness, so … keep climbing.
Stay focused on the next step and keep moving. As Seth Godin says, “dance with fear.” Embrace the journey. Love the climb. The view from the summit is nice, but it’s fleeting. It’s the climb that changes us; the climb forges us into who we can be.
Play it safe or climb. It’s a choice we all face.
On your 80th birthday, when you’re too old to climb, how will you feel about what you’re doing today?
The journey to a summit starts with preparation. Get prepared, but don’t wait until you’re ready. We rarely feel ready. Fear always conjures compelling reasons to postpone. Prepare and then muster enough courage to start moving.
Take that step and have faith that another will appear, and then… do it again.
Your mountain is waiting. Are you prepared?
Photo by Jef Willemyns
