Versions of Fear

Fear comes in many versions. Some common ones are:

Productive Fear. The sense that something is not right about a situation. This can be a helpful early warning system that helps you avoid danger. Being able to spot potential problems can be an advantage. When carried to extremes, however, it can be ruin appreciation of the moment and the enjoyment of life.

Anticipatory Fear. There is insufficient evidence to warrant fear, but you start worrying anyway. This is highly unproductive. Imagination needs to be brought down to earth by reality.

Enjoyable Fear. This may be minor or serious. The minor cases are where a certain pleasure, akin to watching horror films, is gained from fear. Deeper problems, however, are indicated when the victim, once saved from the "fire" of an unpleasant experience, turns around and runs back into the burning building.

Unfortunately, there are no neat divisions between these categories. Self-awareness and analysis help so you'll know when a warrantless anticipatory fear has become a productive one.

Fear is one of those basic topics that deserves much greater attention in the workplace. As a leader, you can rest assured that your associates often fear that you'll do some things and won't do others.

Discussing their fears may give them a sense of control. [Control is an antidote of fear.] It may also remove some of your own fears.