It's Okay to Have Fears by Ashley

It's Okay to Have Fears by Ashley - September 2022 Scholarship Essay

To my past self,

Here are some things you should know for the future… trust me on this one.

I know the word “fear” may sound scary. You’re afraid of heights, so you avoid them at all costs, but you cannot always run from your fears. Fears come in all shapes and sizes. We all have them- that’s what makes us human. It is not our ability to be fearless that defines us, rather our ability to face those fears and continue to strive for greatness regardless of the obstacles life throws our way.

I once read a quote from Ed Helms, an actor from that TV show you won’t like. He shared, “Don’t be afraid of fear. Because it sharpens you, it challenges you, it makes you stronger; and when you run away from fear, you also run away from the opportunity to be your best possible self.”

Being afraid is a part of life, but do not run from it and do not let your fears get in the way of the person you are destined to become. Instead, acknowledge the things that frighten you, put on your “big girl pants” and do them anyway. Your fears should never stop you from achieving your dreams, but should motivate you to work even harder to reach them.

Bravery is a strong virtue- one that will carry you far beyond your self-expectations and into the best version of yourself. Without bravery, your fears become a limiting factor in your life, holding you back from your fullest potential. You are going to achieve great things in your lifetime. I’m telling you this advice because it’s something I wish I would have known at your age. I missed out on a lot of good things in life because I was too scared to even try. Run towards your fears, I promise you will not regret it.

Be brave, be bold, and be YOU.

Sincerely,
Ashley