Face your fears

On 22nd November 1986, Mike Tyson at the age of 20, faced a tough opponent for his first boxing title.

Trevor Berbick had been the reigning champion whose punches were most feared.

During his preparation for the fight, Tyson made it clear that his opponent may have been tough, but he was determined to face him. He was ready to face his fears.

The question that came to mind was “for how long could he have avoided this tough opponent?”.

In life and in our careers, we face some tough situations that shake up our confidence to the core.

We need to overcome tough situations and people to become champions. Without examinations, there may be no promotions. A student who is afraid to sit for an exam should as well be ready to remain in his/her current position.

You must cross hurdles to get the title of excellence. The major thing you cannot avoid on the road to the top is the REALITY TEST.

To face your fears, be prepared! And again I say, be prepared!

In the case of Tyson mentioned above, he prepared for several days and went through tough training and drilling.

He knew what was at stake, If you know what is at stake, you will rise up to the occasion.

You must be doubly prepared to face your fears.

Don’t allow fear imprison you.

Fear is a negative weapon of the mind that stagnates people.

Many great business men and women that I have met, took steps to overcome their fears.

The fear of failure, mistakes and non-acceptance is what affects the progress of many people.

Many who are highly talented have wasted or underutilized their talents because of fear.

Preparation should be a continuous process at all stages.
You must always be prepared. You must stay focused.

It does not matter if you don’t get it at the first attempt.
Your tenacity will work out for you in the long run.
You shouldn't give up on your dreams.
If you become weak at the thought of the hurdles ahead of you, reaching your destination will become a mirage.

I challenge you today and this year to face your fears! Face them prepared and armed.

Face your fears by focusing on your goals.

Tyson later stated that he was focused on the title, therefore it was necessary for him to overcome his fears.

Some of you reading this piece ought to have become stars in life, your profession and career, but the fear of taking the right steps has kept you down.

You ought to be a force to be reckoned with, but the force of fear has stiffened your progress.

Think about the goals ahead of you and face your fears.

Great things don’t happen easily! You need to be prepared!

Fear is the rhythm of excuse, but boldness is the lyrics of success!