Defining Your Fears - What's the worst that can happen?

© afxhome

I found this quote by Helen Mirren, the actress, that says so much.

(The headmistress) took one look at me and said, in such a way that I have never forgotten it,
"Beware of fear."
It took me many years to understand the power and importance of that observation.
Fear sometimes stops you from doing stupid things.
But it can also stop you from doing creative or exciting or experimental things.
It can cloud your judgment of others, and lead to all kinds of evil.
​The control and understanding of our personal fears is one of the most important undertakings of our lives.

I've spent a huge part of my life talking with other photographers online. the phone and if I'm at a workshop or convention, in person, I follow many of you on discussion threads in various forums.  Whether new artists just getting started or established veterans, many of the conversations involve some element of fear. It can be anything from trying to decide what path to take next, to the purchase of new gear, attending a workshop, or making a website change. The range of things people worry about is endless. 

It's a short post and an easy point to consider.

When I made the decision to head out on my own in 2009, my wife, Sheila asked me, "What are you afraid of?" My answer was simple, "Failing!". Her response, "And what's the worst that can happen?"  Once I started to think of putting parameters on failing and my fears, everything changed.

Let's kick off this week with a look at your biggest fears and what you need to do to stop letting them drive your decisions or worst, hold you back. Again and again I've heard artists say, "I should have started doing this years ago!" Stop "shoulding" on yourself and remember two things:

First, you're not on the high-wire without a net! Your family, friends, and associates are there for support. I know it's a little lame and simplistic but the first half of the word "network" is "net." Second, remember everything always works out for the better. Face your fears, take some risks and then, no matter what happens you'll know fear didn't stop you in your tracks.