
Perennial Wisdom Ep. 248: Nietzsche on the Fear of Change | Perennial Wisdom
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Oct 7, 2025 Delve into the profound thoughts of Nietzsche as he challenges us to confront the fear of change. Explore how shedding outdated identities can ignite personal transformation and why this process feels terrifying. Discover that our deepest fear isn't failure, but rather the discomfort of embracing growth. As we mourn our past selves, we also unlock newfound freedom. This discussion weaves the insights of Socrates and Maslow, emphasizing that the journey of becoming one’s true self is a struggle worth undertaking.
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Fear Is Moral, Not Merely Physical
- Socrates reframes fear: the true worry is moral compromise, not death.
- Live rightly rather than calculating chances of living or dying.
We Fear Our Best Selves
- Maslow reveals we fear our highest possibilities and avoid becoming what we glimpse in peak moments.
- Settling for too little guarantees a tragic loss of potential and long-term unhappiness.
Transformation Requires Fiery Endings
- Nietzsche demands transformation: be ready to burn in your own flame and become ashes to rise anew.
- Change is necessary yet terrifying, so we instinctively hesitate despite knowing it's needed.





