Security is one of the most basic human needs. Most people value security because feeling secure feels good. But is it possible that your need for security is holding you back?
If we look at most of the successful self-made people in the world, we’ll see that many of them had to endure what would be considered a large degree of insecurity. For example, according to studies, the average self-made millionaire went broke more than 3 times on the way to their monetary goals.
Most of us crave financial security, yet how many of us would be willing to put ourselves in situations where we might end up broke just to achieve that security? Do these successful people have less need to feel safe? Perhaps they simply see security differently.
Here’s their secret…
Most very successful people feel secure the majority of the time. They’re secure in themselves and in their abilities. They always have those two things available, regardless of their external events. Not having enough money is just a nuisance. While not ideal, it’s nothing to get bent out of shape about.
Risk vs. Reward
Most of us would feel more secure with $250,000 in the bank, a house that’s paid off, a stable job, and health insurance. The problem is that by the time most of us achieve all of these things, we’re nearly out of time. No one lives forever.
So to achieve the things that make us feel secure, the fastest path is usually to take action that might create a feeling of insecurity in the short term. Taking some risks may be necessary to create a life full of security. As with many things, security frequently comes down to risk vs. reward.
Starting your own business might be “risky.” You might go broke. You might have to sleep on your friend’s couch. But is that the end of the world? Did you know that Sylvester Stallone was completely broke, and his wife was pregnant when he tried to sell his script for Rocky?
He even turned down $200,000 for the script because that particular film company wouldn’t let him star in the movie. He ultimately took less for the script just to be in the movie because he knew it was worth the risk. Stallone is now worth over $275 million.
Would you have taken the same chance? If your sense of security came from within you, then yes!
Inner vs. External Security
So, how can you change so that your feeling of security comes from the inside rather than from the outside? First, you need to decide that you’ll perceive things differently. You also need to believe that you can handle any bumps along the way. That’s it! Just those two things are all you need.
Avoid letting your need for security undermine the achievement of your dreams.
If you feel the need to wait until all of your security needs are met before you chase your dreams, you’re likely to run out of time first. Ask yourself if you need all of those external things to feel secure. Then go get some real security.
“Security is mostly a superstition. It does not exist in nature, nor do the children of men as a whole experience it. Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure.
Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.”
~ Helen Keller
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