Someone asked the Swiss physician & author Paul Tournier…
“Someone asked the Swiss physician & author Paul Tournier how he helped his patients get rid of their fears. He replied, 'I don't. Everything that's worthwhile in life is scary. Choosing a school, choosing a career, getting married, having kids--all those things are scary. If it is not fearful, it is not worthwhile.'”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Fear is an indicator that something valuable is at stake; worthwhile pursuits are inherently scary.
In simple terms: Fear signals important choices.
Accept fear as a sign of meaningful pursuits.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- career decisions
- relationships
- creative projects
- personal growth
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What fears are worth confronting?
- How can you turn fear into motivation?
Fear can paralyze instead of motivate.