You Cannot be Afraid and Curious at the Same Time

This line was delivered in my class. I was listening to the incredible teacher and coach Tara Mohr. She offered this wisdom as a quick antidote to anxiety. If you feel overwhelmed with fear, simply try to become curious about the thing of which you are afraid. Because… You cannot be afraid and curious at the same time.

It’s true. I tried it. I thought of the things that frightened me. Trying something too new. Putting myself out there. I paused for just a moment to ask myself a question like, “what would make a person choose this thing?” Or, “I wonder what people in the audience will be hoping during that speech?”

And then the fear dissipated – only as long as I held onto my curiosity. But still, how remarkable that our brains can only manage one – curiosity or fear. ]

There is really not much more to say on the subject. This simple wisdom I share with you – You cannot be afraid and curious at the same time. So, try to get curious.