“Everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear.” – George Addair

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Throughout our lives, overcoming fear is essential meeting and achieving our goals. Fear of rejection and/or failure paralyzes us from taking the right actions needed to move forward in life. This does not mean to recklessly jump into the fire from every proverbial frying pan. It is to say that growth and personal development often exist outside our comfort zones. Career moves, great relationships, even self-discovery all require us to challenge our fears and take control of our lives.

One time to use this quote’s guidance is when you hesitate in making decisions or taking opportunities without determining the validity or hinderance of your fear. Another is when you find yourself stuck in stagnation and needing to break old patterns instead of moving into new opportunities. Lastly, keep this quote in mind during periods of self-doubt, low confidence and the overwhelming feeling that you want to retreat but have no real reason to do so. Success doesn’t come from an absence of fear, but in moving forward despite of fear.

There are times when this quote genuinely is not the best advice to follow. It’s a matter of common sense. Signs of emotional, physical, or mental danger are no time to suppress intuition or red flags. Another time to put aside this advice is when it involves possible damage to or the real anxieties of others. Lastly, please know that there are real mental health challenges that will require professional assistance, not just an optimistic quip. Again, common sense is required on this ride called life.