Have you ever felt that sudden, cold shiver in your chest when something new or uncertain approaches? That is fear, and it is a very human experience. Zig Ziglar’s words remind us that fear isn't a fixed destination, but rather a crossroads. We are constantly presented with a choice between two paths: the instinct to turn back and hide, or the courageous decision to step forward and grow. The first meaning, to forget everything and run, feels safe in the moment, but it leaves us standing exactly where we were, unchanged and unfulfilled. The second meaning, to face everything and rise, is much harder, yet it is the only path that leads to true transformation.

In our everyday lives, this choice shows up in the smallest ways. It is there when we hesitate to speak up in a meeting, when we avoid calling a friend because we are afraid of a difficult conversation, or when we let a dream sit on the shelf because we are scared of failing. Fear often tries to convince us that running is the only way to stay safe, but running actually keeps us trapped in a cycle of missed opportunities. When we choose to face the discomfort, we aren't just surviving; we are actively participating in our own evolution.

I remember a time when I was preparing to share my very first collection of stories. I was so terrified of being judged that I almost deleted everything and walked away. I was leaning heavily toward the 'forget everything and run' side of the acronym. I kept telling myself that maybe I wasn't ready or that my voice didn't matter. But then, I realized that if I ran, I would always wonder 'what if?' I decided to face the trembling in my hands and hit publish anyway. That moment of rising didn't make the fear disappear, but it did make the fear much smaller than my courage.

As you move through your week, I want you to pay attention to those moments when your heart starts to race. Instead of seeing that racing heart as a signal to retreat, try viewing it as an invitation to rise. You don't have to conquer the whole world at once; you just have to face the very next thing in front of you. Take a deep breath, acknowledge the fear, and then take that tiny, brave step forward. You might be surprised at how much strength you find waiting for you on the other side of that challenge.