Is fear holding you back? Here’s how to stop it.

Have you ever felt that gut-wrenching, heart-racing fear when you’re about to take a big leap? 

Maybe it's starting a new job, moving to a new city, or chasing a big dream....

I remember that feeling. 

The Big Move to London

When I was 23, I packed my bags and moved from New Zealand to London with exactly £3,000 in my bank account (the visa requirement) and zero UK work experience. 

I had no job lined up, no contacts, and no idea what I was doing. But I had a plan. I wanted to build my career in the marketing world - working for big, iconic brands that were famous all over the world.

Of course, it wasn’t smooth sailing. My first job in London was so far away (Zone 5 🤯) and the commute took over an hour each way.

Then, just as I was settling in, I got fired - from a job I didn’t even like. If you’ve ever been fired, you know that feeling of panic, self-doubt, and complete uncertainty. It was terrifying.

The Fear of the Unknown

I didn’t let fear stop me. I quickly found a new job working for a big agency on a global account. It felt like a step closer to my dream job. 

But, just three months in, I left. Why? Because the job was awful. Honestly, if I hadn't left, they would have fired me too.

At that point, fear was creeping in again. I wasn’t sure what would come next, and I started questioning myself. Could I really make it? Was I cut out for this? 

But then, a twist of fate. I landed an interview with Nike - and I got the job after just one interview!

Facing the Fear Again

Even though I was ecstatic, another fear emerged. Was I good enough to work at Nike? 

Walking into that office on my first day felt like stepping into a room full of rock stars. It was intimidating. I wasn’t sure if I belonged. 

But I kept reminding myself that fear was just a signal. A signal that I was growing.

Fear as a Trigger

Looking back, I can see that every time I was afraid, I was moving closer to the person I wanted to become. Fear has been a constant companion in my career - from the moment I arrived in London to the day I walked into Nike. 

But here’s the thing: every time I felt that fear, I moved forward despite it. Fear wasn’t something to run from; it was something to lean into.

Here’s what I’ve learned: Fear is not a wall, it’s a doorway. 

It’s a trigger to tell you that growth is happening, that success is on the other side. The only way to beat fear is to face it head-on, push through it, and keep moving forward.

Your Next Step

Whatever you’re facing right now, remember this: Fear is a sign you’re about to make big strides and have big growth. Don’t let it hold you back. Use it to fuel you. 

Because the best things in life are on the other side of our fear.

If finding your Dream Job is your goal for 2025, the Creative Career Level Up might be the right solution for you.