I have recently been reading Sheryl Sandberg's book Lean In; a work of fiction about women in the workplace and how to be seen as a leader. A question Sandberg often goes back and asks throughout the book, is: "What would you do if you weren't afraid?". This got me thinking...

What would I do if I weren't afraid?

If I weren't afraid I would probably speak my mind. I would give honest opinions of relationships my friends were about to enter. I wouldn't be afraid to say he doesn't seem to be interested in them for the right reason, and I would tell her how she deserves to be treated and that this isn't it. I wouldn't be afraid to say I didn't think it was a good idea for her to sleep with him after only two dates and a few texts in between.

If I weren't afraid I would be more trusting. I wouldn't feel the need to constantly look over my shoulder when I walk back to my dorm at night. There would be no pepper spray in my purse, and I wouldn't be afraid to put my drink down at a party, because I wouldn't be afraid of being drugged.

If I weren't afraid I would I would go on more dates. I wouldn't be afraid of the heartache that may come, but rather embrace the chance to get to know a new person. If I weren't afraid I would show the world how full of love I am. I wouldn't keep it folded up neatly in a box; I would spread it to everyone and not just a select few. If I weren't afraid I would be vulnerable. I would open myself up to be hurt, without the fear of actually being hurt.

If I weren't afraid I would spend my entire junior year abroad. I would not be afraid to embrace the changes to come and the opportunities that lie ahead. I would not be afraid to stand up to my dad and tell him this is something I genuinely want to do to better myself. If I weren't afraid I would ask more questions. My world knowledge would become so vast it could cause others to be afraid of it.

If I weren't afraid I wouldn't overthink. I would think the exact amount I needed to, not an ounce more, not an ounce less. I would allow myself to clear my head and see what really matter, and not get myself down by the little things. If I weren't afraid I would not be afraid of losing friends. I would know the people who are in my life are there and are staying because they want to.

So...why? Why are we so afraid?