Let’s dive into something critical for achieving success in today’s world – overcoming fear!
Fear is an emotion that can hold us back, paralyze us, and keep us from reaching our true potential. But what if I told you that everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear?
Great leaders are not those who have no fear, but those who move forward in spite of it. They understand that on the other side of fear lies growth, achievement, and success.
Years ago, I had the privilege of meeting the Chairman of Standard Oil of Ohio, Charles Spahr. An organization for which he worked for 38 years. Sohio, as it was also known at the time, was the remaining oil company founded by John D. Rockefeller. He was one of the most courageous men I have ever met and showed confidence early in his career.
In 1959, when the board of directors told him the CEO position would be given to someone else, he told them he would find employment elsewhere. They changed their minds.
His most significant achievement, however, came in 1970 when he linked Sohio’s strong marketing operation with British Petroleum’s discovery of oil at Prudhoe Bay in Alaska. It was one of the largest oil fields ever found, containing 10 billion barrels of crude.
In 1969, Spahr agreed to swap a controlling interest in Standard Oil for BP’s half interest in the Prudhoe Bay oil discovery in Alaska. During our meeting with him, he told us that he was well aware that this decision could mean that BP would ultimately take full control of his company, but he felt it would be better for the shareholders.
The Alaskan pipeline was a construction project of great magnitude, which I have seen firsthand. In addition to the weather, large quantities of supplies had to be moved over great distances.
Spahr’s confidence in overcoming that obstacle grew, in part, from the four years as a major in the Army Corps of Engineers, he supervised the construction of a 570-mile section of the India-Burma-China emergency fuel pipeline to supply gasoline for long-range bombers.
As a leader, your journey is defined by the moments you choose courage over comfort. The decisions you make in the face of fear will determine your path and inspire those who follow you.
Remember, fear is not the enemy. It’s a signal that you are on the brink of something great. It’s an opportunity to rise, to break through barriers, and to achieve your dreams.
So, the next time fear knocks on your door, welcome it. Embrace it. And then, step forward with courage, knowing that everything you’ve ever wanted is on the other side of fear.
That’s all for today! Go out there and be the courageous leader your team needs. And if you have a great story about your own courage or the courage of others, share it in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other!
