Chapter 1: The Relationship Between Truth and Fear

What you long for in life often lies just beyond your deepest fears. Embracing truth serves as the bridge that allows you to traverse that daunting path toward your ultimate aspirations.

In our earlier discussions, we examined how fear can become overwhelming when we react to it negatively. Conversely, we also highlighted how the acknowledgment of truth can flourish when we respond positively to our fears. Now, you have a new mission: to arm yourself with empowering truths to confront those daunting obstacles.

We frequently hear inspiring tales of individuals who took bold steps to uncover their unique potential. These accounts refer to actual achievements that are both concrete and practical.

Consider the stories of:

• Entrepreneurs who launched businesses with little to no backing but managed to succeed.
• Individuals who relocated to new cities to pursue their careers and found success.
• Talented people who didn’t recognize their abilities until they performed in front of an audience and excelled.
• Those who made a small but significant change by distancing themselves from unproductive relationships.
• Individuals who left draining jobs in search of fulfillment.

These examples could fill a library, and you likely know a few of these remarkable individuals personally. Films, documentaries, and books often celebrate their journeys. Most of them are relatable to you, and some faced more severe challenges than you do now.

Reflecting on your school days, teachers often advised personalizing your writing or speeches. The reality is that we connect deeply with narratives that resonate on a personal level. At times, we may even wish to be part of the stories we often encounter.

If we were to interview the protagonists of our favorite narratives, a common theme would emerge: nearly all experienced fear before taking the leap that ignited their journey. This reiterates the notion that what you seek in life is often hidden behind your greatest fears.

What occurs when you avoid confronting your fears?

A void may expand, but so too will the truths. In that moment, the phrase "it's never too late to start" will echo around you like an incessant alarm clock. There are countless stories of individuals who overcame that very notion.

For example:

• A 90-year-old woman made headlines as the oldest graduate in BYU history (The Daily Universe, 2021).
• At 50, Leo Goodwin founded GEICO insurance (Kazan Today, 2018).
• Tina Turner, at 45, inspired us with her music, including the hit "What's Love Got to Do with It."
• Mother Teresa established the Missionaries of Charity at the age of 40.

Until your last breath, you have the chance to confront your fears. The longer you postpone this, the more formidable the challenge appears, but it remains achievable.

What is the common misunderstanding about facing fear?

Doubt, the offspring of fear, will attempt to undermine the truths you hold, aiming to distract you from your ultimate goals. Any questioning of your progress is the doubt rearing its head. At this point, you are grounded in truth, and your protective armor is equipped. The loudest voice becomes your own.

External challenges abound, yet your greatest adversary is yourself. Think about video games: the final stage typically features a formidable boss, the toughest obstacle you must overcome. In life, that boss is you.

With the right support system, you can receive the encouragement needed to advance. However, when doubts emerge, that’s the internal boss pushing back. Defeating this inner adversary isn’t a single-approach task; you’ve already seen this in the stories of those who dared to "go for it."

To gain insight into overcoming this inner struggle, you might refer to one of my previous articles titled "Get Over Yourself" (GOY).

A major misconception is that life becomes perfect and easy after conquering your greatest fears. Fear doesn’t vanish; its grip simply loosens. Consider a child who is terrified of jumping into a pool; once they overcome that fear, they leap in with ease. The fear persists but loses its power, replaced by the truth that it’s merely water.

Now you have clarity on what to pursue in life, what it demands, and what obstacles may lie ahead.

We will delve deeper into this topic in Part 8.

PART I

PART II

PART III

PART IV

PART V

PART VI

Chapter 2: The Nature of Truth and Existence

Does Truth Exist? This video features Dr. Frank Turek discussing the nature of truth and its significance in our lives. Explore the philosophical implications of truth and its role in personal development.

Chapter 3: Understanding Existence

What Exists II? In this episode from Closer To Truth, the concept of existence is examined, prompting viewers to ponder the nature of reality and our place within it.