Using Your Strength to Follow Your Vision: Why Fear Doesn't Matter

Imagine you’re standing at the edge of a high diving board. Below you is a swimming pool. You feel scared, your heart is pounding, and your legs are shaking. But then you remember why you're up there: you love diving, and you want to become a better diver. This goal, this vision, makes you take the leap despite your fear. This is a lot like what poet Audre Lorde meant when she said, "When I dare to be powerful, to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid."

Understanding Inner Strength and Vision

Inner Strength: This is the courage and determination inside you. It’s not about how strong you are physically but about your mental and emotional toughness. It’s about believing in yourself and your goals.

Vision: This is your dream or goal. It’s what you want to achieve or become. Your vision could be to become a doctor, an artist, a scientist, or even a great diver.

To understand how using your strength to follow your vision makes fear less important, let's look at the story of Malala Yousafzai.

Malala grew up in Pakistan where some people didn't want girls to go to school. They were very strict and even dangerous. But Malala had a strong vision: she wanted every girl to have the chance to go to school and learn. 

Even though she was afraid, she used her inner strength to speak out. She wrote a blog, gave speeches, and became a voice for girls' education. One day, some people who didn’t like what she was doing tried to stop her by hurting her badly. But Malala didn't let fear win. She kept going and became even more determined to achieve her vision. 

Because she used her strength in the service of her vision, she became less afraid. Today, Malala is known around the world for her bravery and has helped millions of girls go to school.

Why Fear Becomes Less Important

When you focus on your vision, you give your strength a purpose. Just like Malala, when you’re working towards something important to you, fear starts to feel less powerful. Your vision is like a guiding light that helps you see past the fear.

Here are some simple steps to help you use your strength in the service of your vision:

1. Identify Your Vision: What is your dream? What do you want to achieve? Write it down and think about why it’s important to you.
2. Take Small Steps: Break your vision into smaller, manageable goals. For example, if you want to be a great diver, start by practicing simple dives and gradually try more difficult ones.
3. Stay Positive: Focus on what you can do, not on what you’re afraid of. Remember, everyone feels scared sometimes. It’s okay to be afraid, but don’t let it stop you.
4. Ask for Help: Surround yourself with people who support your vision. This could be your family, friends, teachers, or coaches. They can encourage you and help you stay strong.
5. Celebrate Successes: Every time you achieve a small goal, celebrate it. This will build your confidence and make you feel stronger.

Conclusion

When you dare to be powerful and use your strength to follow your vision, fear becomes less important. Like Malala, you can overcome your fears and make a big difference in your own life and in the world. So, find your vision, use your strength, and don't let fear hold you back. Remember, you have the power to achieve great things!