The Only Thing We Have To Fear...

"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself."

– Franklin Roosevelt

As I continue on my journey of personal discovery and growth, this phrase keeps coming back to me. It's ten simple words that I think are some of the most simple yet utterly profound. As I grow and learn more about myself the quote takes on different meanings.

For instance, place the emphasis on the word "fear."
"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself."

Now put the emphasis on the word "thing." "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself."

Now "we." "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself."

See what I mean?

I've learned that fear permeates practically everything if we let it. Fear is the ultimate paralyzer. It freezes us in place, whether that be trying a new entree at a restaurant, asking that person we've always thought was cute out on a date, or more tragically, staying in a miserable job because we fear rejection and change.

I've learned to identify my fear in a situation and label it as just that, fear. Once I do that I realize that it's not the thing or situation or person or event I fear. It's simply me letting fear hold me back.

The only thing we have to fear is fear itself. Indeed. Thank you, Mr. Roosevelt.