January 1, 2025

PUTTING FEAR INTO PERSPECTIVE

By Yannick Benjamin

 

“Do not be afraid” is a phrase echoed across many religious texts, but whether you are spiritual or not, it carries a universal truth that can resonate with all of us. It’s a mantra that I try to repeat daily — a reminder that there is nothing to fear but fear itself, as President Roosevelt once said. 

When you find yourself hesitating, wondering if you should take the next step, remember this: The worst outcome is failure, but the greatest outcome is growth. You’ll learn something invaluable and you’ll never have to look back in regret. 

Don’t let fear hold you captive. Regardless of background or genetics, courage is something we all share. If you’ve been unsure about staring something new, afraid of judgment or failure, remember this: other people’s opinions are their burden, not yours. 

“When Thomas Edison was asked how he felt about failing in his first 10,000 attempts to invent the light bulb, he famously responded: “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.”

 

Act, even if the outcome is uncertain and remember these things:

  • Courage reveals itself in many forms
  • Try again after failure
  • Even in the face of doubt, pursue a passion
  • Be able to admit, “I don’t know,” without shame.
  • Advocate for change, no matter how small
  • Even if you fall seven times, stand back up 

When Thomas Edison was asked how he felt about failing in his first 10,000 attempts to invent the light bulb, he famously responded: “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.”

This powerful shift in perspective speaks volumes about residence. I can only image how often he must have been questioned — and the discipline it must have taken not to let doubt or defeat take hold.

Continuing on a mission despite repeated obstacles requires immense courage. It also demands humility — to endure the pity of others while staying the course. Undoubtedly, Edison had moments of self-doubt in private. But each attempt became a lesson, another stepping stone bringing him closer to his ultimate breakthrough.

It takes strength to get out of bed and face the world, especially when life feels cruel or dark. There will be times when circumstances weigh heavily, bringing discomfort or pain. But stress and anxiety often stem from inaction — when we delay decisions we know we need to make. This is a reminder to all of us. 

Marcus Aurelius offers timeless wisdom: “At dawn, when you have trouble getting out of bed, tell yourself: ‘I have to go to work – as a human being. What do I have to complain of, if I’m going to do what I was born for — the things I was brought into the world to do? Or is this what I was created for? To huddle under the blankets and stay warm?”

Even the most powerful person in the world had to find the courage to rise and face his day. Each of us carries talents and gifts. The greatest loss in life isn’t failure — it’s allowing fear of judgement to keep us from sharing those gifts with the world.

Stillness should be the ultimate goal. In the quiet moments, you will find the clarity, courage and peace you seek.

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