Nothing To Fear But Fear Itself
We have nothing to fear but fear itself
The panicking that happened during the Great Depression led Franklin D. Roosevelt to utter the famous words, “We have nothing to fear but fear itself.” He made that statement in his inaugural statement in 1933 as he also described the problem with unreasonable fear.
“So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is … fear itself- nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance. In every dark hour of our national life a leadership of frankness and of vigor has met with that understanding and support of the people themselves which is essential to victory. And I am convinced that you will again give that support to leadership in these critical days.”
While realistic fear can be healthy and useful, unrealistic fear generates self-created problems. Then, as people panic- the panic itself gives people yet one more thing to fear. Investors, fearing the financial panicking, themselves panic which then amplifies the panicking. Like little children imagining the shadows are monsters hiding in the closet- so we are creating all sorts of monsters which only amplifies the panic of fear. Add partisan politics to the mix as many are doing, and you have a perform storm of panic about panicking.
What’s a better approach?
Remind yourself of the statistics-80% will recover quickly, 20% will have some complications, and the 2% with immunity-deficiency, respiratory problem will die.
Stay calm and cool, prepare, don’t panic.
Don’t empty the shelves at the grocery store.
Wash hands regularly.
Eat lots of fruits and vegetables for the required nutriments.
Realize that this too will pass.
If you’re under 60 and no underlying health problems – go for a trip.
Set aside a 3 to 6-months emergency fund so you can easily handle the lack of employment for that period of time.