"有两种恐惧：一种是你要拥抱的，另一种是你应该倾听然后选择另一个方向的。"

Ever felt that sudden rush of fear, making your heart pound and your palms sweat? There’s a basic idea behind it: there are two types of fear. One is a fear you lean into, and the other is a fear you respect by steering clear. It’s about knowing which fear to confront and which to avoid.

Fear can be a natural response to danger. Historically, it’s kept us alive—think of our ancestors facing wild animals. But not all fears are life-threatening. Take the fear of public speaking, for example. For many, it feels like facing a lion, yet it's not dangerous. Overcoming this fear can lead to personal growth and new opportunities. On the flip side, there's the fear that warns us of genuine peril, like walking down a dark alley in a rough neighborhood. This is the fear you listen to and avoid.

Consider the story of Alex Honnold, the free solo climber who scaled El Capitan without ropes. Talk about embracing fear! He felt fear, and he respected it, but he also knew it was something he could confront through meticulous preparation and skill. His fear wasn’t just a signal to run away—it was a cue to be incredibly cautious and push his limits.

So how do you apply this in your life? Start by identifying your fears. Are they irrational, like a fear of failure, or are they rational, like the fear of physical danger? If it’s the first, it might be worth embracing. Challenge yourself. Public speaking, asking for a promotion, taking a leap in your personal life—these are fears that, when faced, can lead to tremendous growth.

On the other hand, if it’s a fear that signals real danger, listen to it. Don’t walk alone at night in unsafe areas. Don’t ignore your gut feeling when something seems off. These fears are protective.

Now, imagine you're at a crossroads in life. You've been offered a job in a new city, but the thought of moving scares you. This is an opportunity to embrace fear. Sure, it’s daunting, but think of the adventure, the new experiences, the growth. On the other hand, if you’re hiking and come across a warning sign for a dangerous cliff, that’s the time to heed the fear and turn back.

Let’s bring it closer to home. Picture your friend Sarah. She’s always wanted to start a bakery. Baking is her passion, but she’s terrified of failing. This is the fear she should embrace. Sure, there’s risk, but the potential rewards—both personal and professional—are immense. Now, say Sarah’s planning a road trip and hears about a storm coming. The fear of bad weather and dangerous driving conditions is a valid one. She should probably reschedule rather than push through.

In essence, fear is a tool. It can push you to become better or keep you safe. It’s all about discerning which type you’re dealing with. So next time fear grips you, pause. Ask yourself—is this a fear I should embrace, or one I should listen to and turn the other way? Your gut will often know the answer.