Chapter 1: Understanding Your Fear

As I prepare to make a significant life change by moving to the USA, I find myself grappling with a whirlwind of emotions, primarily fear. Here I am in Australia, with a stable job and a supportive network, contemplating leaving behind my comfort zone. Yet, amid this trepidation, there lies a powerful motivation: my aspiration to fulfill a lifelong dream.

In this journey of risk-taking, the first essential step is to identify your motivation. Without a clear purpose, any risk can feel daunting and futile. When you understand the reason behind your leap of faith, it becomes easier to push through moments of doubt and the negativity from others. Every hero faces challenges, but they keep moving forward because their purpose outweighs their fears. No matter the risk at hand, a strong sense of your "why" will be your guiding light.

For me, that guiding light is my ambition to publish a fiction book. Although I've had various goals throughout my life, this dream has persisted since childhood. As I approach my 30s, the thought of not achieving this dream weighs heavily on me, and the fear of inadequacy has often held me back. Initially, the pain of uncertainty was tolerable—until it no longer was.

The first video, "IF You DON'T Take RISKS, You're GUARANTEED to FAIL!" by Mark Zuckerberg, emphasizes the necessity of risk in achieving success. It serves as a powerful reminder that without taking risks, we may never reach our fullest potential.

Section 1.1: The Desire to Pursue Your Goals

The second step in this process is to develop an intense desire for your goal. When the discomfort of not pursuing your passion becomes more unbearable than the fear of taking a risk, that’s when real change happens. For me, this realization prompted me to apply for an MFA in Creative Writing, and I was fortunate to be accepted into a program in Texas. While I can’t predict my experience or outcomes, I am hopeful that this opportunity will enhance my skills and bring me closer to my dream.

Subsection 1.1.1: Facing the Unknown

The thought of relocating to the US comes with its uncertainties. I’ve visited before and felt isolated and overwhelmed. Yet, as I weigh the potential rewards against the risks, it becomes clear to me that pursuing this goal is worth the leap. Reflecting on your reasons can help clarify whether your desire is strong enough to justify the risks involved.

Chapter 2: Acting Despite Your Fears

In the second video, "Jordan Peterson: Take risks (but not in a naive way)," the focus is on the importance of calculated risk-taking. It’s a reminder that while risks are essential, they should be approached thoughtfully and strategically.

The final step is to act, even when fear is present. This means having faith in your ability to adapt and make decisions as circumstances change. You cannot anticipate every outcome or plan for every eventuality. The key is to trust in your capacity to navigate challenges and to pivot if necessary.

If my time in the US or my chosen program doesn’t meet my expectations, I trust myself to return home and start anew. While there may be some loss of time and resources, my well-being and happiness are paramount, and I believe in my ability to make choices that align with those values.

Remember, you’ve successfully faced fear countless times before. There will always be an element of anxiety when taking risks, but that’s what makes the rewards meaningful. The only way to learn that you can endure the fear is to confront it head-on.

Make your decisions based on your motivations and proceed, even when you feel scared. This mindset can be the defining factor between moving forward and remaining stagnant.