I’ve been thinking a lot about the role of fear in adventure sports lately, and whether it’s ultimately a positive or negative force. On one hand, fear can keep you alive. That healthy dose of anxiety when approaching a risky section of a climb, or before dropping into a steep line snowboarding, forces you to focus, double-check your gear, and make smart decisions.Without that fear, you might become complacent and make a fatal mistake.
Conversely, fear can be incredibly debilitating. It can lead to panic, poor judgment, and ultimately prevent you from pushing your limits and experiencing the incredible joy that comes from conquering a challenge. Has anyone else felt paralyzed by fear in a situation where they knew, rationally, they were capable? I’m curious to hear different perspectives on how people manage fear in their respective sports, and whether you view it more as an ally or an enemy. Is there a point where controlled fear becomes detrimental fear?