Dearest Darling Friends, 

“Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood.” These words, spoken by the pioneering scientist Marie Curie, held a profound truth that has transformed my approach to life’s challenges.

Let’s unpack this wisdom and see how it can be a game-changer for all of us!

Think about it: how many times have you lost sleep over a looming presentation, a difficult conversation or a big life decision?

We humans are hardwired to fear the unknown. It’s an evolutionary trait that kept our ancestors alive in a world full of saber-toothed tigers. But in our modern jungle of spreadsheets and social media, this fear often does more harm than good.

As Mark Twain humorously put it, “I’ve had a lot of worries in my life, most of which never happened.” Isn’t that the truth? We spend so much energy fearing outcomes that often never materialize. But what if we could channel that energy into understanding instead?

Understanding is like turning on a light in a dark room.

Suddenly, what seemed scary and unknowable, becomes clear and manageable. It’s like when you were a kid and thought there was a monster under your bed. Once you gathered the courage to look, you realized it was just a pile of laundry!

Take public speaking, for instance. Many people fear it more than death! But when you understand that…

– your audience wants you to succeed,
– that perfection isn’t required,
– that preparation can boost your confidence,
– suddenly it becomes less terrifying and more exciting.

The same goes for big life changes. Moving outside your comfort zone, changing careers, or ending a relationship can seem daunting, but when we seek to understand

– the reasons behind our choices,
– the potential outcomes,
– the growth opportunities,
– these changes become adventures rather than threats.

I can visualise you asking me this question – “Naren, all this jazz is ok. Tell us how to put this into practice?”

Well, well, well. Here are a few action points to help you shift from the base of fear to the tower of understanding:

1. The Miracle Question: When you feel afraid, ask yourself, “What don’t I understand about this situation?” This simple question can shift your mindset from panic to problem-solving.

2. Embrace curiosity: Approach fearful situations with a sense of curiosity. “What if I know, or what if I have, can I face this situation with confidence”. As Einstein said, “The important thing is not to stop questioning.”

3. Seek knowledge: When faced with something unfamiliar, do your research. Knowledge truly is power!

4. Practice mindfulness: Stay present in the moment instead of worrying about the future. As Gyaani Gyanchand advised, “Only the now exists.” Take a deep breathe. Relax. Do it again. Do it five times. Feeling better? Good!!!!

5. Reframe challenges: Instead of seeing obstacles as threats, see them as for opportunities to learn and grow. In the words of Helen Keller, “Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.”

To sum it all up, “Greateness is not possible by doing your best to avoid fears—it’s about understanding them, taking them head on and growing through them”.

As you face your next challenge, big or small, channel your inner Marie Curie. Approach it not with fear, but with a desire to understand. You might just find that what once terrified you now excites you!