In 1933, when the U.S. was in national despair and economic hardship caused by the Great Depression, Franklin Roosevelt coined the phrase “the only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” Although most of us have heard this so many times that it has almost lost its impact, the quote reminds us that fear is a debilitating obstacle that stands in the way of overcoming challenges.
Fear can be important because it is the way humans are wired up to protect themselves from danger. However, when fear takes over, it can stop us in our tracks and prevent us from progress or taking positive action.
As I pondered the significance of fear, I received the latest edition of Maria Shriver’s newsletter known as the Sunday Paper, touching on this same theme. I first met Maria years ago as she was the first national reporter to break the story on our ‘bring your baby to work’ program at my company, T3, known as ‘T3 and Under.’ Maria and I have met several times through the years including at my Austin home where I hosted one of her recent book launches (pictured above).
In this newsletter, Maria used this quote:
“Don’t give in to your fears. If you do, you won’t be able to talk to your heart.”
—Paulo Coelho
Perhaps this is one of the most unfortunate outcomes of letting fear take over. We simply stop listening to our ‘gut’ and the quiet voice of reason in our hearts. This shatters our confidence and sidelines the things we want to accomplish and create.
In my leadership training, one of the traits I found most often is the lack of confidence and power that one must have to move forward with purpose.
Listen to your heart. Talk to a trusted friend or advisor and embrace your confidence because perhaps we have nothing to fear but fear itself.
Quietly listening,
Gay Gaddis
Founder. Author. Artist. Trailblazer.
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