John Knotts, an expert on fear and scientific thinking, discusses why fear exists and how continuous improvement can help overcome it. Topics include professional fear, the relationship between worry and fear, facing fears of swimming and public speaking, and the benefits of being prepared. The podcast also explores how scientific thinking can help deal with fear and the importance of continuous improvement in overcoming fear of change.
Acknowledging and addressing fear is important for personal growth and achievement.
Overcoming fear, particularly in professional settings, is crucial for personal and career growth.
Deep dives
Fear as a Taboo Topic
Fear is often not openly discussed due to the stigma it carries. Many people are reluctant to admit their fears as it can make them feel inferior. However, acknowledging and addressing fear is important for personal growth and achievement.
The Impact of Fear on Success
Fear can be a major obstacle to success. It is often the root cause of limiting beliefs and can prevent individuals from reaching their full potential. Overcoming fear, particularly in professional settings, is crucial for personal and career growth.
Understanding the Source of Fear
Fear often stems from past experiences or conditioning during childhood. It can also be driven by socioeconomic factors and traumatic events. Identifying the specific fear and the underlying reasons behind it is an important step in addressing and overcoming it.
Strategies to Overcome Fear
There are various strategies to effectively deal with fear. Seeking support from others, gradually exposing oneself to the fear-inducing situation, and reframing fear as excitement or energy can help individuals overcome their fears. Preparation and embracing the unknown can also play a crucial role in reducing fear and building confidence.
This week's guest is John Knotts. Ron and John explored the multifaceted concept of fear. John also explained why fear exists, and how scientific thinking and continuous improvement can help us all deal with it. An MP3 audio version of this episode is available for download here.
In this episode you'll learn:
The quote John likes (3:28)
John's background (4:47)
An example of "professional fear" (8:49)
Why John chose to study fear (10:40)
An example of why fear exists (14:53)
The relationship between worry and fear (19:38)
How John faced his fears of swimming and public speaking (22:45)
Ron's fear of snakes (27:43)
The benefits of being prepared (32:17)
How scientific thinking can help deal with fear (41:23)
Podcast Resources
Right Click to Download this Podcast as an MP3
John on LinkedIn
Crossing the Zone of Fear
Becoming Unbelievably Successful
One Dead Marine: A Savage Soul Scorched Earth
John's Forbes Coach Articles
Business 2020
Lessons in Life Long Learning
Overcoming Organizational Myopia: Breaking Through Siloed Organizations
GA 392 | Using Lean on a Horse Farm with John Knotts
GA 407 | Choosing an Approach to Lean and Six Sigma with John Knotts
GA 439 | Collecting and Interpreting Data with John Knotts
GA 478 | Discovering Your Purpose with John Knotts
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What Do You Think?
How do you deal with fear? Have you faced any of your own?
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