Choosing How We Respond to Fear’s Dual Nature
Created at: June 30, 2025
Fear has two meanings: 'Forget Everything And Run' or 'Face Everything And Rise.' The choice is yours. — Zig Ziglar
Understanding Ziglar’s Two Meanings of Fear
Zig Ziglar’s memorable statement frames fear as a crossroads, presenting us with a stark dichotomy: we can either "Forget Everything And Run" or "Face Everything And Rise." This play on the word ‘fear’ underscores how the same emotion can trigger drastically different responses. By highlighting these opposing reactions, Ziglar encourages readers to recognize their agency in interpreting and acting upon fear.
The Flight Response: Instinct and Habit
Running from fear is a deeply entrenched instinct. Evolutionarily, flight helped our ancestors survive immediate threats, and even today, our initial reaction to fear—be it a stressful confrontation at work or a looming deadline—can be avoidance. Behavioral psychologist B.F. Skinner explored how repeated avoidance can become habitual, reinforcing a cycle of evasion rather than resolution.
Choosing Courage: Facing Challenges to Grow
On the other hand, 'Face Everything And Rise' suggests that fear, when confronted, can be a catalyst for personal growth. Viktor Frankl’s *Man’s Search for Meaning* (1946) illustrates how enduring adversity can build resilience and a deeper sense of purpose. By standing firm and addressing our fears, we open the door to learning, transformation, and self-empowerment.
Everyday Examples of Fearful Choices
These responses manifest in daily life—consider a student afraid to give a presentation. Choosing to avoid it may lead to relief in the short term but limits personal development. Conversely, embracing the anxiety and presenting despite the nerves can boost confidence and communication skills over time. Countless public speakers, including Winston Churchill, overcame early fears by repeatedly choosing to rise rather than run.
Empowering the Individual: The Role of Choice
Ultimately, Ziglar’s quote centers the power of choice. While we cannot always control what sparks fear, we invariably decide how to respond. Consistently electing to confront our fears, rather than fleeing, fosters a mindset oriented toward growth instead of avoidance. Thus, recognizing fear’s dual meanings can transform it from an obstacle into a stepping stone for success.