Fear is Relevant: It has a Purpose

I keep finding myself going through transitions. From one stop to the next, and sometimes I feel like giving up. I know that I’ve worked hard to get to where I am in life but when I see the challenges that lie ahead, it’s easy to start doubting myself.

But who would have thought five years ago that I’d be sitting here at this very moment, thinking an operating as a business owner and entrepreneur. I always knew that I had it in me, but five years ago this task seemed to be out of my reach. Nevertheless I made it here, and I’m three years in.

So in light of all that I may be feeling or even experiencing right now, it’s just another phase in the growth and development process. I know some people are thinking as they read this, “Why be afraid?” “Fear is not good and you should not speak it into existence,” but I say to you, “Much like Anger, Fear is relevant, and it can be a positive emotion, if it’s processed appropriately.”

I guess you’re wondering why would I even say that “Fear is relevant?” Well, it’s quite simple. For me, I see fear as being motivational, a form of protection, and a source of guidance. When I’m place in a position that I feel like “I can’t,” or “I’m afraid too,” Fear prompts me to overcome it, just to prove that I can and I’m very capable. Yes, I’ve turn what could have been an immobilizing disaster, into an positive, self motivating factor. So the way I see it, Fear is relevant and it has a place in my success, and here’s how:

1. Fear motivates you: Instead of retreating, Fear has a way of pushing you forward and it dares you to believe. No more staying stuck and feeling intimidated by what you thought you could not do. Let your Fear motivate you, and prove to yourself that you are more than capable, and that you can do, what you thought was not even possible.

2. Fear protects: It puts you in a position to be vigilant, on alert, and self aware at all time. It helps you to take a look at things from all angles, and it prompts you to be conscientious about the choices and decisions you have to make.

3. Fear Guides you: It compels you to think and process before reacting to any situation. It informs you about the choices you make, and makes you aware of the consequence (positive and negative) that can impact future. It helps you to think critically through each step you take, as you recognize that where your headed, is on a journey that will change your life forever.

When you’re looking to grow professionally and develop into what you know you could be, and when your working hard to read your maximum potential, just know that you will experience moments where fear will creep in. But I say to you, that’s ok. Remember, Fear has a place and it’s relevant in the growth and development process. How you process and navigate through your fear, will determine the outcome you’ll experience. Fear could immobilize you, or catapult you into becoming the best version of yourself, imaginable. I say execute the power of Fear and let it motive you, protect you, and guide you into your destiny.

Bridgette N Montgomery
​MSW LCSW MSNPM CSOTS