I despise regret.
It forces you to long for something that, no matter what, you cannot have.
We can only look forward.
Which begs the question: Can we avoid regret before we’re swimming in it?
I think so. Or at least consider the weight of it before we decide to say no.
Here’s one way to do that:
If you have an idea, any idea, that excites you but you haven’t brought it to life due to fear of criticism, fear of the outcome, fear of the unknown; befriend your worries.
Paint two intensely vivid pictures for yourself:
– Your worst-case outcomes. The root of what’s making you want to say no.
– Why this idea lights you up. The root of your motivation to say yes.
Now look at both and ask yourself, honestly:
1. Is there anything I can do to mitigate the risk or impact of my worst-case scenarios?
This opens your mind to potential solutions, aside from completely canning the idea, that may tangibly mitigate your concerns. If your immediate response is “No”, challenge that.
2. Is the (likely low) possibility of my worst case scenarios coming to fruition worth being CERTAIN this idea stays an idea?
It’s ok if that answer is yes. It is for me sometimes. But regardless of the answer, if you put it through these filters, you can feel confident your decision was made from thoughtfulness and honesty rather than blind fear and comfort.
