We all face moments in our lives when we’re presented with an opportunity that both excites and terrifies us. Whether it’s starting a business, asking for a raise, or going back to school, the fear of the unknown can be paralyzing. However, as I learned in a Dale Carnegie course, a simple thought can help us overcome this fear: “What’s the worst that could happen?”
When we’re considering trying something new and frightening, it’s easy to let our imaginations run wild with worst-case scenarios. But often, when we take a step back and really think about it, the worst thing that could happen isn’t so bad after all. By playing out the extreme case in our heads, we can make it easier to take that first step and do the thing we’re afraid of.
For example, when I was starting my crafting business, I was terrified of putting my work out there for the world to see, let alone buy. What if no one liked what I made? What if I spent money on a website or took the time to set up social media, only to have no one interested in my products? The key for me was to say, “So what?” So what if they don’t like it? It’s a lesson learned, and I’ll have gained the experience of knowing what works and what doesn’t.
My daughter recently went through a similar experience when buying a new car. The whole process of waiting for the salesperson to check her credit and ability to pay with the finance department was nerve-wracking. She kept asking, “What if they don’t approve me, mom? What if they say I can’t buy a car?” Again, the answer is, “So what?” She would have learned about the car-buying process and what she needs to do to improve her credit or how much she needs to make to afford a payment. Or maybe she would have had to settle for a less expensive car. For her, it was a huge step, but in the end, she was approved for the car she wanted.
These examples illustrate the power of considering the worst that could happen. Once we know the worst-case scenario, we can start working on improving it. Ask yourself, “What would I do if what I tried was a flop?” By having a plan in place, you can minimize your fears and take that leap of faith.
In the words of Robert Schuller, a minister and writer, “What goals would you be setting for yourself if you knew you could not fail?” This powerful question encourages us to dream big and pursue our passions without letting fear hold us back.
So, the next time you’re faced with a scary decision, remember to ask yourself, “What’s the worst that could happen?” By embracing the unknown and having a plan in place, you can overcome your fears and achieve your goals. Don’t let the fear of failure stop you from pursuing your dreams – instead, use it as a catalyst for growth and success.
