Overcoming Fear: Taking the First Steps Towards Growth
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Chapter 1: Embracing Change
As the summer winds down and responsibilities begin to loom, I find myself needing to seek an internship for college credits, a mandatory step for graduation. Initially, the idea of pursuing an internship felt daunting; I often hesitated and felt trapped by the thought. However, I recently discovered that my reluctance stemmed not from a dislike of work but from fear itself.
Fear of rejection has permeated various aspects of my life, significantly contributing to my social anxiety. Interestingly, I used to be much more confident. Years back, I successfully applied to my dream college and tried out for multiple sports without a hint of self-doubt. It seems that I've lost some of that confidence over time, as the thought of job applications and interviews feels far more personal.
Due to this fear, I considered becoming my own boss, not out of genuine passion, but as a way to shield myself from potential rejection. Instead of pursuing internships, I found myself researching side hustles. While there's nothing inherently wrong with hustling, I was using it as a means to procrastinate rather than confront my fears.
Now that the internship is a requirement, I've had to face my apprehensions head-on. I must apply and expose myself to judgment. A simple shift in my perspective has significantly boosted my motivation: if I don't apply, my chances of securing a position are exactly zero.
The first video titled "How to 'overcome' fear" by Trevor Ragan provides insights into managing fear and embracing challenges. This TEDx talk encourages viewers to confront their fears rather than shy away, making it a valuable resource for anyone feeling paralyzed by the fear of rejection.
Section 1.1: The Realization of Fear
This shift in mindset applies to many scenarios in life. For instance, if I don't invite someone for coffee, my chances of forming a friendship are non-existent. Similarly, neglecting to study for an exam guarantees that I won't achieve my desired grade. It's about weighing the decision to try against the decision not to try. Recognizing the potential consequences of my inaction has helped me understand that avoiding these situations is detrimental rather than beneficial.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Power of Application
Photo by Danie Franco on Unsplash
Section 1.2: Moving Forward Despite Fear
Acknowledging that I cannot secure an internship without submitting an application has served as a powerful motivator. The fear of missing out on an opportunity has begun to outweigh my fear of rejection. If you're grappling with a profound fear of rejection, remember to hold on.
The second video, "I Will Fear No More" by The Afters, reinforces the message of overcoming fear. This official lyric video serves as an inspiring reminder that we can move past our fears and embrace new opportunities, making it a perfect companion to this journey of self-discovery.
Chapter 2: The Journey Ahead
By weighing the consequences of trying versus not trying, we can better determine what truly matters to us. What is worth more: the security of the familiar or the potential for personal growth? The choice is yours.