Fear & Leadership: The Two Types of Fear That Shape Your Success
"What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?" - Joanna’s paperweight from a client
That’s the question engraved on a paperweight gifted to me by a client years ago. It’s also the question that stops so many of us in our tracks. Fear.
Fear is universal. No matter how confident, accomplished, or outwardly fearless someone appears, fear is a thing. It’s part of the human experience. The question isn’t whether we feel it—it’s how we deal with it.
As a leadership coach, I’ve seen fear manifest in countless ways. Some people freeze. Some run in the opposite direction. Others bulldoze through it with sheer force. But not all fear is the same, and understanding the difference could be the key to unlocking your next level.
Let’s talk about the two kinds of fear—Pachad and Yirah—a concept beautifully explored in Tara Mohr’s book Playing Big.
Key Takeaways
Fear is Universal—But How We Handle It Matters
Everyone experiences fear, no matter how confident they seem. The real question isn’t whether we feel fear, but how we respond to it.
There Are Two Types of Fear: Pachad vs. Yirah
Pachad is the fear that keeps you small—fear of failure, rejection, or taking risks.
Yirah is the fear that signals growth—fear of stepping into something bigger than yourself.
Pachad Fear is Often Irrational and Holds You Back
This type of fear is based on worst-case scenarios and imaginary threats. It stops you from applying for jobs, speaking up, or taking risks.
Yirah Fear is the Gateway to Growth
The feeling of nervous excitement when stepping into new territory? That’s Yirah. It’s the fear we should embrace because it means we’re leveling up.
The First Step is Awareness—Then Action
When fear shows up, ask: Is this fear keeping me small, or inviting me to grow? If it’s Yirah, lean in and take the next step toward expansion..
Additional Insights for Bold Leadership
Reframing Fear Transforms Your Decision-Making
Instead of asking, What if I fail? try asking, What if this is the exact thing I need to grow?
Fear is a Sign You’re On the Right Track
The best opportunities often feel uncomfortable at first. If it doesn’t scare you at least a little, it might not be stretching you enough.
Courage Isn’t the Absence of Fear—It’s Moving Through It
Fear doesn’t disappear. The most successful leaders aren’t fearless—they’ve just learned to act despite their fear.
Your challenge:
To start exploring this new concept of fear, download my free workbook today. Identify one Pachad fear to release and one Yirah fear to embrace. What’s your next bold step?
