Fear has always been there.
Before my first college football game. Before every big play in the NFL.
Before launching a business. Before stepping into the Death Zone on Everest.
It whispers the same thing: What if you fail? What if this goes wrong?
Most people think fear is a stop sign. They let it hold them back.
But the best don’t eliminate fear—they use it.
The moment I learned that fear wasn’t something to avoid, but something to train for,
everything changed.
Before my Everest climb, fear told me I wasn’t ready. I wasn’t a professional climber.
I didn’t belong. One wrong step at 26,000 feet, and it was over.
But I had a choice: let fear paralyze me or let it fuel me.
I chose to move forward. Step by step. Breath by breath.
And in doing so, I realized that fear is just energy—
it can stop you or push you. You decide.
Here’s how you can train your mind to make fear your greatest advantage:
10 Steps to Making Fear Work for You
1. Stop Trying to Eliminate Fear
Fear isn’t the problem—how you respond to it is. Let it sharpen you, not stop you.
2. Name It to Tame It
Fear thrives in the unknown. Call it out. Get specific. What exactly are you afraid of?
3. Shift Fear into Focus
Fear and excitement feel the same in the body. Reframe it: I’m not scared—I’m ready.
4. Move Toward Fear, Not Away
Everything you want is on the other side of fear. Train yourself to lean in.
5. Take Action Before You Feel Ready
Fear waits for hesitation. The faster you move, the less time fear has to stop you.
6. Control the Controllables
Most fear is about what might happen. Shift focus to what you can control—right now.
7. Train for Fear Like an Athlete
Do things daily that stretch your comfort zone. The more reps, the stronger you get.
8. Use the “What If?” Exercise
Instead of asking, What if I fail?, ask What if this works? Shift the focus.
9. Remember: Fear Is Temporary, Regret Lasts
Fear fades the second you take action. Regret lingers for a lifetime. Choose wisely.
10. Turn Fear into a Trigger for Action
Make fear your go signal. When you feel it, take a step forward—immediately.
The WYE Challenge
This week, pick one fear that’s been holding you back—big or small.
- A conversation you’ve been avoiding.
- A risk you’ve been hesitating on.
- A challenge that feels too big.
Now, take one action toward it. No overthinking. No waiting. Just move.
Then, reflect: Did fear shrink once you faced it? (Hint: It always does.)
The Next Step Toolkit
Movie Recommendation: Free Solo
A masterclass in managing fear, featuring Alex Honnold’s insane, rope-free climb up El Capitan.
Fear isn’t the enemy—it’s the shortcut.
It shows you exactly where your next level is. The question is: Will you step toward it or let it stop you?
What’s one fear you’re ready to face? Hit reply and let me know.
Keep climbing,
Mark