"Fear kills more dreams than failure ever will."

“Fear kills more dreams than failure ever will.” - Suzy Kassem

I have made the decision to embrace my dreams and pursue them fearlessly, casting aside the doubt that so often kills aspirations before they even begin. I do know, however, that I am incredibly lucky to have found that mental ability. All too often, people live in fear of what they cannot or should not do. We have been conditioned to believe that failure is the worst thing that can happen. This ultimately requires a mental reframing: failure is nothing but feedback, and feedback is incredibly valuable. 

My journey as an artist has required a fearless attitude as I’ve chosen to venture into the unknown. Though I could have chosen a leisurely path of retirement, I instead made the decision to reinvent myself as a painter, a teacher, and a motivator for others. The process of embarking on a new career path can be frightening, but had I succumbed to that fear, I never would have found the peace, fulfillment, excitement, and inspiration that I am currently experiencing on a daily basis. I could have spent years to come thinking “what if” and wishing for the dream I was too scared to follow. Fortunately, I didn’t give in to self-doubt, and find an immense amount of gratitude, beauty, and joy in my daily life and reinvented path. 

Embracing a fearless way of living subsequently informs my fearless painting style. Instead of shying away from loose brushstrokes and vibrant color, worrying that the painting will be a “failure” if I make bold choices, I embrace those things wholeheartedly. My original paintings are full of deep, rich, adventurous shades and hues that bring a smile to my face and those who view them. When I paint, I do not hesitate and think “this painting will fail if I make a bold choice.” Instead, I cast that doubt aside and put brush to canvas, creating with joy rather than fear. When something doesn’t look quite right, I adapt, learn, and make positive changes. 

What About You?

What would you do if you knew you could not fail?

Would you follow a lifelong dream, start a new hobby, or pick up a paintbrush?

I encourage you today to take one step towards casting aside fear and allowing your dreams to flourish!