Today, the question that can help you challenge your fears when thinking about doing something. You see, fear pretends to befriend and protect us. So it whispers into our ear all kinds of thoughts about not doing something because “something could go wrong.” But in actuality, there isn’t much fact behind the images of utter destruction.
So, the question is “what’s the worst that can happen?” Then think through the answers. Are they really that bad? If they are, and it isn’t your exageration from fear, then perhaps you shouldn’t do it. Say you are standing on the edge of the Grand Canyon and you want to jump to a rock outcropping 6 feet out from you. You are scared, but still thinking about it. You ask the question: “what’s the worst that can happen?” And you answer “Oh, I don’t know, a 5000 foot drop.” Then, your fear was well-intended!
But let’s face it, that is not the typical situation. No, our fears are normally about non-lethal situations. In fact, our fears often only serve to constrict our lives, keeping us from growning and developing. That is when the question is magic!
How about this one: someone asks you to give a short speech during a business gathering! Fear whispers in your ear “I’ll mess that one up. . . that’s scary!” Quickly, you find a conflict on your schedule, a reason why that is not going to work out.
But what if you asked the question “what’s the worst that could happen?” and you were realistic? The worst may be that your words don’t come out as clearly as you would like. Or people won’t agree with you. Or you will die of embarrassment (there has never been a verified case of this!).
OK, so maybe your words don’t come out as clearly as you would like. Maybe your tongue gets tied, but haven’t you seen others do the same in a speaking situation? Even presidents get tongue-tied and say the wrong things. But they are still presidents. In other words, there is likely far less risk than you think.
You answer the question, you face your worst fears, realize that they aren’t so bad, and you decide to take a risk. That is the nature of life, growth, and learning. That is how we develop into better humans. So ask the question, question the answers, and see that fear isn’t the friend it pretends to be.