Я (Me)What Is Fear and What It Does
When my children were young, I often took them to the playing yard. On one of the occasions, I saw two kids, about five years old, swinging on the seesaw.
After a while, the bigger boy, who looked stronger and heavier, lifted the younger boy up in the air and left him there a bit longer than usual.
I paid attention to the behavior of the young kid. It was very clear that he was afraid to stay so long up in the air, but he said nothing. The older kid tried to frighten him with words and sudden movements, but the young boy remained silent and did not react, until the big kid got tired of the game and brought him down to the ground.
I could see his shivering little body, as he was running to his mother who sat nearby.
I told you this story, because I think that this little boy is destined to succeed in life. He did not let anyone bully him; he did not show any fear though he was very afraid, and did not beg the other kid to lower him down. He was young, yet smart enough not to give in to fear.
The little boy’s behavior teaches us a lesson about fear and how to handle it.
What Is Fear?
It is a basic emotion, which is important and essential for our survival.
It is a feeling that keeps us alert in times of danger, and determines whether to fight or run away when confronting dangerous situations.
Fear Is a Positive Feeling
I do not consider fear as a negative feeling, but as a healthy and positive feeling, because it restrains hasty and risky actions, which might lead to harmful outcomes.
It is good to be hesitant and think over and again before taking a significant step, or doing any action that might jeopardize your safety.
You better think over and again, before climbing a high mountain without the proper training, risk all your savings on an uncertain financial adventure, or take part in an activity that looks good only in James bond’s movies.
For such kind of actions, fear is the exact and right feeling. It ensures that you do not risk your life and happiness in vain.
Fear Is also a Negative Feeling
• Fear can be a negative energy, if you let it rule your life.
• Fear is a negative way of thinking, if it is followed by fearful behavior.
• Fear can hinder success.