Fear Management: Turning Fears into Success

By: Amanda Young

DO identify the fear/threat and manage it

DO NOT try to remove the fear

Fear and Stress Management in the World

45% of entrepreneurs in the United States fear failure of their start-up

83% of US workers suffer from work-related stress

US businesses lose up to $300 billion yearly as a result of workplace stress

The three biggest fears in the workplace are the fear of failure, the fear of the unknown and the fear of confrontation

The Three C’s

The human brain instinctively looks out for danger to protect yourself for “survival”.  When a threat is detected it is important to remember the three C’s.  Business leaders should teach their employees to consider using the three C’s when facing a threat. 

The three C’s stand for calm, connect, and communicate.  It is crucial for successful leaders to remain calm and regulate their emotions when they are put under pressure.  

Next, having strong connections with employees and clients is so helpful with preventing possible threats that can come to your business.  

Lastly, communicating effectively with employees assists companies during a time of change.  The human brain finds comfort when it is given information about a situation that can come off as a threat.  This allows individuals to feel like they have a sense of control over a situation.

How Successful People Turn Fears Into Successes

Forbes identified four ways successful people turn their fears into success:

  1. Know what you want
  2. Figure out what is keeping you from getting what you want
  3. Own your discomfort
  4. Adjust to what makes you uncomfortable 

Overall, making sure to put yourself out there will help you get closer to your goals.  Hearing the word “no” more and more will help you become less afraid of rejection.  The less you put yourself out there the more you end up staying where you are. 

Define Your Fears