FEAR! It’s an emotion that drives us to do unreasonable things. We cry because of fear, we fight because of fear, and we judge others because of fear. Perhaps most important to the premedical student, we don’t try because of fear.

Recently, I had the opportunity to give the MLK Keynote Address at a major medical center. I went on stage and delivered my message to an audience of 400 people or so. When I stepped off the stage, something in me didn’t feel right. I didn’t think I connected with audience as well as I usually do. The feeling was fleeting as it immediately left when people began to approach me afterwards. Two young individuals (one a doctor an the other a now premed) came to thank me. Both had been struggling with the same issue…FEAR.

The premedical student was considering a career in the healthcare industry, however did not plan to pursue and MD or DO degree. When I asked why, he let me know that he was didn’t think we was good enough for it. He was afraid that he didn’t have what it takes. The young doctor was considering applying for a prestigious position, however was also afraid that she wouldn’t be a strong enough candidate to get it. After speaking to both of them, they changed their course and STOMPED ALL OVER THAT FEAR!

Fear holds us back way too much. In this world which we live in, we’re constantly trained to be afraid of things and because of that, to reserve ourselves. This grossly limits our potential to become great.

I’ve decided in my heart that fear has no hold on me. I’m striving for greatness. Will you strive with me???

What fears hold you back in life? Please share.

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