FEAR: False Evidence Appearing Real

“Ninety percent of the things we fear are never going to happen to us. Most of the time our fear of the unknown is worse than the reality of the situation.” - Will Smith

Fear is a powerful emotion that can have a profound impact on our lives. I like to think of fear in an acronym: False Evidence Appearing Real. This means that our fears are often based on things that have not yet happened, or things that are unlikely to happen, but we imagine them to be real.

When it comes to becoming elite, fear can be a major obstacle. Many people who strive for excellence in their lives often face fears of failure, rejection, or not being good enough. These fears can be paralyzing and prevent someone from taking risks and pursuing their goals with the necessary intensity and dedication.

In order to become elite, it is important to recognize and overcome these fears. This requires a deep understanding of yourself and the ability to distinguish between real and imagination. Often, fears are rooted in past experiences or beliefs that are no longer real. It is important to identify these patterns and replace them with new, positive mindsets that support our current goals.

Another important step in overcoming fear is to cultivate resilience. This means developing the ability to bounce back from setbacks and adversity, and to keep pushing forward despite obstacles. Resilience is a key characteristic of elite performers, as it allows them to stay focused and motivated in the face of adversity.

It can also be helpful to seek out support from mentors, coaches, or friends who can provide guidance and encouragement. Having a strong support system can help to alleviate fears and provide the motivation and accountability needed to build anything at an elite level.

Fear can be a major obstacle on the path to becoming elite. However, with self-awareness, resilience, and a strong support system, it is possible to overcome these fears and achieve excellence in anything.

Reflection Question: What fear of failure do you have currently that may be holding you back from achieving excellence?

Coach T