About this quote

The idea here is simple: you can believe the outcome will be good and still dread the cost required to reach it. That fear often stops people from choosing what they know is best because they fixate on short-term pain. Notice exactly what you fear and name it; that makes the fear smaller and actionable. Then pick one concrete step you can take toward the outcome even if it hurts a little.

When to use it

• At the oncology consult, after the doctor said aggressive chemo offers the best chance, I told my partner I trust the result but I'm terrified of how brutal the months ahead will be.
• During the board meeting about saving the company, I remembered the line and argued we accept short-term layoffs if that preserves the business for everyone else.
• After my coach recommended a brutal training block to make the Olympic team, I admitted to my teammates I believe it will pay off, I'm just worried about the toll on my body.
• When my aging parent needed full-time care, I said aloud that I know moving them is the right choice for their safety, but I’m scared of the guilt and the fights that will follow.