I’ve never really been an overly fearful person in life. Not sure if that’s a good thing or a bad thing? The only thing I ever feared was leaving this Earth before my children got to a certain age and when I was younger- losing my parents before I became of age- that’s it! Well… I guess there was that time I got that job in my 20’s to run a division at a recruiting company. I talked myself up so much they hired me for a job that was way out of my league. I was scared everyday for 6 months in my huge office. My secretary knew more about my job than I did, and she was well aware of that fact too. I suppose I have had my share of fears in life, but as I get older I’m beginning to lose them all. I’m realizing that they serve no purpose. Of course, I still have my doubts and low points, but never a paralyzing fear that stops me. What if you knew that you couldn’t fail and pursued your passions like success was inevitable. Well…if you have that attitude then successful is most likely what you will become. What I’ve realized is that it’s not about NOT having fear, it’s about moving forward anyway.

In the movie After Earth, Will Smith’s character says to his son, “Danger is real- fear is a choice.” Simply put, trouble will most certainly come in life, but how you react to it is your choice. I read a quote the other day that says, “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” I know this for a fact with all that I’ve been doing over the last five months. I am way out of my comfort zone and although it’s scary at times, I’ve never been happier in my life! For once, I’m living life 100% on my own terms. This doesn’t mean that this path will be easy, but I know it’s worth the wild ride! Caroline Myss says, “Always go with the choice that scares you the most, because that is the one that is going to help you grow.”

I suppose my greatest fear lately was simply not wanting to be in the exact same place that I was in last year. To ensure this didn’t happen, I had to first reflect on how I had gotten to that place and make conscious decisions to chose better and take actions towards my new goals. If that means shutting toxic people out- do that. If it means protecting your peace by limiting people’s access to you- do that. If it means getting a whole new circle of like minded people that are dedicated to aiding you on your mission- do that. You must protect your dreams like they are your babies and you don’t want to leave this Earth before you see them grow into beautiful realities.

If you must have any fears, fear only giving up on yourself. “One life. Just one. Why aren’t we running like we are on fire towards our wildest dreams?”-Unknown. Fear will always being lurking somewhere in the background, but I chose FAITH OVER FEAR. So hold fast to your dreams, don’t give up on yourself ever, and when life tries to bring you down remember, John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” There’s really nothing to fear, but fear itself.

Speaking Frankly,

Janay Frank