Feel the fear and do it anyway By Susan Jeffers
One of the most influential reads of our time, this book has been in the hands of the greats and used to great effect.
Fear is a tricky beast. It stops us from taking risks, pursuing dreams, and making changes. In Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway, Susan Jeffers gives us a much-needed toolkit to face fear head-on and, more importantly, act despite it.
Jeffers doesn’t promise a life without fear. Instead, she redefines fear as a natural part of growth and change. Her approach is empowering: You don’t need to eliminate fear; you need to build the confidence to move through it.
This isn’t just a book for adrenaline junkies or daredevils—it’s for anyone who has ever hesitated before making a tough decision, starting a new project, or stepping outside their comfort zone.
Pivotal takeaways
Fear is universal—and survivable. Everyone feels fear, from beginners to experts. But Jeffers reminds us that the fear of failure, rejection, or the unknown doesn’t have to paralyse us.
Action is the antidote to fear. The book’s central message is clear: The more you act, the more confident you’ll feel. Waiting for fear to disappear is a losing game.
Reframe failure as growth. Jeffers flips the script on failure, encouraging us to see every setback as a learning opportunity. It’s not failure; it’s feedback.
Say yes to life. One of the most impactful ideas is the concept of “stretching.” By saying yes to new experiences, even if they’re uncomfortable, you build resilience and expand your comfort zone.
Why it’s a must-read
At Pivotal, we’re all about empowering people to take bold steps, and Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway captures that perfectly. It’s not just a pep talk; it’s a practical guide to changing how you think about fear and decision-making.
Jeffers’ writing is approachable and full of relatable examples, making her advice easy to digest and apply. Whether you’re building a business, tackling a personal challenge, or just looking for more courage in daily life, this book delivers insights that stick.
Rating: ★★★★☆
This is the kind of book that deserves a permanent spot on your shelf. While some sections might feel a touch repetitive, the core lessons are timeless and universally applicable.
Your challenge. What’s one thing fear has been holding you back from? Let us know in the comments, and let’s encourage each other to take the first step.
