They say, “a journey of a thousand miles begins with a step”, but sometimes taking that step is the hardest thing a person can ever get themselves to do. The reluctance is not because one is incapable of making the step but because venturing into an unknown land is uncharacteristic and just plain scary. Many times we hear the ever-growing masses continuously tell us about how the beauty of life lies beyond fear. The more we listen to it, the less scary we think it is.
Contrary to popular thought, I have come to learn that the most challenging task is not the act of facing fear. The most difficult fact is instead tuning the mind in preparation for the task at hand; that is the scariest. I can think of numerous times I impulsively conquered a fear simply because my brain was semi oblivious to what was happening in my body. By the time my brain was in the know, I was no longer afraid; it makes you wonder, doesn’t it?
Now, this is not me trying to discount all the philosophy behind facing your fear. I am merely trying to understand the process; so I can push through the mental block when the time comes. Multiple philosophers have given us ways to move through fear: from changing your paradigm to visualizing your happy place and many other helpful tools. Despite all the steps given to us, we always seem to hit pause when the chance to face our fear presents itself.
From my perspective, it is not a question of bravery. The trick lies in understanding that sometimes just having enough faith that you are capable regardless of the outcome is the epitome of courage.
To conclude, I leave you with one of my favourite quotes from Franklin D Roosevelt, which says, “courage is not the absence of fear but the realization that something else is more important than fear.”
This quote has aided me through and through to a point where I thought myself fearless. It helped me, and I believe it can help you too. Go ye therefore, and be bold!
Reader's Escape 