Chapter 1: Understanding Fear

Fears can broadly be categorized as either innate or learned. Innate fears are those we are born with, while learned fears develop over time through experiences and environmental influences. For instance, we may fear spiders or snakes not because of an inherent aversion, but due to witnessing someone else’s fear or having a negative encounter. Similarly, a childhood trauma involving clowns could foster a lasting fear of them, influenced by media portrayals like Pennywise.

It is essential to recognize that these fears, however irrational they may seem to others, are valid and real to the person experiencing them. Take, for example, Mayophobia, the fear of mayonnaise. While it may sound absurd, this fear can arise from a subconscious association with illness, highlighting the complex nature of our fears.

Another example is Paraskevidekatriaphobia, or the fear of Friday the 13th. This fear is deeply rooted in cultural beliefs surrounding the number 13 and has been popularized by movies, creating a widespread superstition that some people take seriously. The discomfort associated with the number stems from it being an odd number in contrast to the more stable even numbers, which can create a sense of unease.

Evolutionary factors also play a critical role in our fears today. Early humans faced numerous threats, and the instinct to react—either by fighting or fleeing—was crucial for survival. This fight-or-flight response is still present in our bodies today. When faced with a danger, our heart rate increases, and adrenaline surges, preparing us to either confront a threat or escape from it.

Have you ever experienced a moment of intense focus during a stressful situation? That’s your brain prioritizing essential functions while shutting down others, a remnant of our evolutionary past. Physical symptoms of anxiety, such as dry mouth and sweaty palms, are natural reactions when we perceive danger, diverting our attention away from eating to focus on survival.

Chapter 2: The Two Innate Fears

Can you guess what innate fears all humans share? Surprisingly, they are quite simple: the fear of falling and loud noises. These fears helped early humans avoid deadly falls and alert them to potential threats.

These innate fears manifest even in modern life. For instance, when a mother blows her nose, a baby might react with fear to the unfamiliar sound. Adults aren’t immune either; sudden loud noises can startle anyone. Similarly, our fear of heights ties back to our natural fear of falling, often experienced in that jarring moment when we feel as if we're falling asleep.

As we reflect on these fears, it’s clear that most fears we have are learned. Since they are learned, they can also be unlearned. Techniques such as therapy, hypnosis, and self-soothing can aid in overcoming unnecessary fears.

Life is too brief to allow fear to hinder our aspirations; we owe it to ourselves—and to our ancestors who faced far greater dangers—to overcome these limitations. What fears do you wish to conquer? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

The first video titled "Are We Born With Fear?" explores the innate aspects of fear and discusses how they shape our experiences.

The second video titled "We are born with only 2 fears - falling and loud noises #shorts" succinctly highlights the two primary fears we are all born with.