🎃 Fear vs. Panic (Happy Halloween)


Hi Reader,

When you’re building something new and ambitious, feeling fear is natural.

It’s that shiver down your spine before stepping onto a stage, or the goosebumps when you hit “publish” for the first time.

But fear, like all emotions, is just a signal – it's telling you: this matters, pay attention.

A little fear is healthy. It sharpens your senses, like the tense music in a haunted house.

Panic, on the other hand, is dangerous.

It scrambles your thinking, pushing you to make rash choices, like sprinting blindly into the dark woods when the monster jumps out.

Know the difference:

  • Fear keeps you cautious and focused.
  • Panic makes you reckless and reactive.

I’ve felt both as I've tried to grow 321 Liftoff.

And the truth is: the bigger and bolder the thing you’re chasing, the more fear is going to show up. That’s not a sign to stop. It’s a sign you’re on the path to personal growth.

The trick (pun intended) is learning to listen to fear without letting it turn into panic.

The real treat (yes, one more) comes when you acknowledge your nerves, breathe, and move forward anyway. That’s how you do something bold without letting it become a nightmare.

Take a moment to pause & reflect.

  • What’s one thing in your business right now that feels scary (in a good way)?
  • Where might you be letting panic, not fear, drive your decisions?

Actions, experiments, & things to try next.

Next time you feel fear rise up, name it out loud: it's okay to be afraid, but I am choosing not to panic. Pause, breathe, and ask: what’s the next small step I can take to move forward?

Happy Halloween! 👻

Michael

Michael Schefman | 321 Liftoff

Copyright © 2024 by 321 Liftoff LLC

Michel Schefman, 321 Liftoff

Starting a business is exciting and ambiguous – and that’s the fun. It’s a time of possibility, experimentation, imagination, and showing the world what you can do. But, it can also feel slow, frustrating, and full of traps and distractions, leaving potential entrepreneurs to question their self-worth and to wonder why they started in the first place. As a small business coach, I’ll help you cultivate an entrepreneur’s mindset, so you can start and grow your businesses with confidence and step boldly into the role of business owner. Subscribe to get access to weekly tips, small business interviews, and more.

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