Napoleon Hill’s Think and Grow Rich (published in 1937) is a guide to success. It is often described as ‘timeless’ and whilst I found parts dated (particularly gender-wise), the final chapter (a discussion of the ‘Six Fears’) was fascinating.
Whether you’re an early-career teacher, a seasoned educator, or considering a career shift within or beyond the profession, these fears can influence your decisions, confidence, and career growth (as can a misunderstanding of what fear really is).
Recognising and understanding the fears can help you navigate your career with greater clarity and confidence, but understanding you already have, within you, everything you need to overcome these fears is the crucial message from me.
In no particular order here are the six fears, as identified by Hill (with my observations on how it perhaps applies to teachers added):
1. Fear of Poverty: “What if I can’t afford to make a change?”
Many teachers hesitate to take risks—whether it’s switching schools, pursuing leadership roles, or even leaving the profession—because of financial concerns. The fear of losing security can be paralysing, especially in a profession where pay scales are structured and progression isn’t always financially lucrative.
2. Fear of Criticism: “What will people say?”
Teachers work in highly social environments where professional reputations matter. Fear of judgment from colleagues, senior leadership, parents and even students may deter educators from trying new teaching methods, voicing opinions, or pursuing leadership roles.
3. Fear of Ill Health: “Will stress and burnout take a toll on me?”
Teaching is demanding, and concerns about physical and mental well-being can deter career progression. Many teachers fear that additional responsibilities—like moving into leadership—will lead to overwhelming stress.
4. Fear of Loss of Love: “Will my career affect my relationships?”
Teachers often juggle demanding schedules with personal commitments. Many hesitate to take on leadership roles, move schools, or pursue new opportunities due to the potential impact on their family life or relationships.
5. Fear of Old Age: “Am I too late to make a change?”
It’s common for educators in mid or late-career stages to feel ‘stuck’—believing they’re too old to shift direction or learn new skills. The reality is that experience is an asset, and career evolution is always possible.
6. Fear of Death: “What if I run out of time to achieve my goals?”
This existential fear can manifest as a sense of urgency or regret, leading teachers to either rush into decisions or avoid making them altogether.
Moving Forward with Confidence
These fears (and others you may be experiencing) are all too often seen as obstacles that hold people back – the good news is that there are actions you can take to overcome them and the even better news is that when you see fear for what it really is – thoughts or feelings that can be ignored, confronted or leap-frogged – you will feel empowered to take action. Perhaps, the first step for each of us is to shift from living from a place of fear to living on purpose (read more about this HERE).
Fear is a natural part of life and maybe part of any career journey. It plays an important part in ensuring our survival, but can also stop us in our tracks if we allow it. The key point I want to make is that it doesn’t have to control our decisions. By recognising and addressing our fears for what they really are, we can take charge of our professional growth, embrace change, and build a career (and life) that is truly fulfilling.
If I was working with you in my capacity as a former teacher and lecturer turned career coach my initial questions would be: Do you recognise these fears? Which fear is stopping you from making decisions? Are they real? Is it time to acknowledge the fear and move on? Is it time to live your life on and with purpose? Feel free to contact me – liz@liztaplin.ocm – if you’d like to discuss this topic in more detail.
References
Hill, N. (1937) Think and Grow Rich. Vermilnion (Revised by Arthur Pell)
Photo Credit: Alexandra Gorn on Unsplash