Fear Setting Exercise
Inspired by Tim Ferriss and the Stoic philosopher Seneca, who said "We suffer more often in imagination than reality." This exercise helps you define your fears, identify prevention strategies, and realize the cost of inaction. Read the full article →
Fear Statements
Be as specific as possible. Vague fears hold more power over you than concrete ones.
Identify Your Shift
What is the change or leap you are considering making?
Worst Possible Outcomes
What are the worst things that could happen if you make this change? List them all — even the unlikely ones.
Prevention Strategies
For each worst-case outcome above, what could you do to prevent it or decrease its likelihood?
Repair Plan
If the worst did happen, what steps could you take to get back to where you are today?
Benefits of Trying
What could be some benefits of an attempt or even a partial success? What might you learn? What skills might you develop?
The Cost of Inaction
If you don't make this change, what does your life look like? This is often the most powerful part of the exercise.
In 3 months
In 12 months
In 3 years
Reflection
Look back at what you've written. Most people find that their fears, once defined, are far less scary than the vague anxiety they've been carrying. The cost of inaction is almost always higher than the cost of trying.