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Fear Quote by Jeanette Winterson

“And here's the shock -- when you risk it, when you do the right thing, when you arrive at the borders of common sense and cross into unknown territory, leaving behind you all the familiar smells and lights, you do not experience great joy and huge energy. You are unhappy. Things get worse. It is a…” quote by Jeanette Winterson
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““And here's the shock -- when you risk it, when you do the right thing, when you arrive at the borders of common sense and cross into unknown territory, leaving behind you all the familiar smells and lights, you do not experience great joy and huge energy. You are unhappy. Things get worse. It is a time of mourning. Loss. Fear. We bullet ourselves through with questions. And then we feel shot and wounded. And then all the cowards come out and say, 'See, I told you so.' In fact, they told you nothing.””

Jeanette Winterson

About This Quote

Describes the painful, uncertain phase after taking bold risks, where fear and doubt dominate before eventual growth.

In simple terms: Risk leads to fear and doubt before growth.

Key Takeaway

Expect discomfort after bold choices.

Themes

risk fear growth uncertainty

Mood

reflective somber

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • starting a new business
  • leaving a job
  • creative projects

Key Concepts

existentialism psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you cope with the mourning phase after risk?
  • What supports you when others doubt you?
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