Fear is defined as an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain or a threat. A feeling of anxiety concerning the outcome of something or the safety and well-being of someone. Or a mixed feeling of dread and reverence. It triggers our Flight or Fight reactions.
Is fear rational?
How can it both motivated us to action and also paralyze us to the point of not being able to react? Again, this blog is about random thoughts on life. Although I hold a degree in Psychology, I am not speaking from a professional standpoint. The answers are within the person themself. Two people in the same circumstances react differently. What is a perfectly rational fear to one person, the fear of the dark, or what may lurk in the dark, others may call an irrational fear or phobia?
It is the experiences of the person that makes the fear real to them.
Fear of one thing could actually be a hidden fear of something else. For example, a fear of the dark, or what lurks in the dark, may actually be the person’s way of expressing consciously or subconsciously their fear of the unknown. Their fear of being vulnerable and opening themselves up to possible heartache because they have been hurt before. But where does this type of fear lead us?
This type of fear can lead us to not take risks, try new things, experience new adventures, get to know new people. In extreme cases, it can lead to unprecedented hatred of something, someone, or a race. But what is the harm in taking a risk? If you are fearful of someone and you stop to talk to them or say a kind word. What is the worse that can happen? They ignore you. If you take the risk of falling in love and get hurt. Don’t fear falling in love with the next person. The experience will be different. Maybe you will get your heart broken or maybe it will change your whole life. May revisit this topic later.