The Success Design

Fear is good.  Fear keeps us safe.  Fear prevents us from proceeding in a manner that may ultimately be dangerous for us.  But, if not harnessed and controlled, fear can consume us.  Fear can be paralyzing and can prevent us from doing what we need or want to do.

How do we control fear?  Think of fear as a fire burning within you.  If you use it correctly, it can give you energy, motivation and the bravery to go forward.  However, if it gets too hot, it will burn you up.  You will self destruct.  You must keep that fire inside you burning at a level that benefits, not destroys, you.

Keep your fear under control.  Keep your thoughts rational.  Use reason.  When things get out of control, find you center.  Rationalize your thoughts.  Use fear to your advantage and realize that it is the only thing to be feared.  As the famous quote from President Franklin Roosevelt says, the “only thing we have to fear is fear itself”.

How do you know when to trust someone?  I struggle with this question as I am approached with various people wanting to meet me or collaborate with me.  As my star rises, the more people want from me. 

For most of my adult life I have tried not to be a cynic. However, I now find cynicism to be a great survival tool.  Mostly, I see the good in everyone I meet.  But these past couple of years have brought on a constant barrage of people wanting a piece of me.  Thus, I’ve developed two terms - cautious encounters and careful cynicism.  These phrases remind me to use caution when meeting someone new, but they also encourage me to not to jump to hasty conclusion or assume the worst.  This is my attempt at balance.  I refuse to let this world turn me into a bitter cynic.  Therefore, I will continue to be optimistic about my future cautious endeavors.