the Mind Killer

Hello Fellow thinker. ✌️

These words stopped me in my tracks recently:

“I must not fear. Fear is the mind-killer. Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration. I will face my fear. I will permit it to pass over me and through me. And when it has gone past I will turn the inner eye to see its path. Where the fear has gone there will be nothing. Only I will remain.”

— Frank Herbert, Dune (1965)

The quote struck a chord, serving as a powerful reminder of how fear operates in my own life.

Fear is a powerful force. It can be both debilitating and galvanizing. On one hand, it can prevent us from moving forward, from acting on our goals. But on the other hand, fear can light a fire under us. It can drive us to make necessary changes, push us into uncomfortable spaces, and ultimately lead us to growth. Fear comes from the unknown, from the disruption of our status quo, but it also presents an opportunity.

Right now, I’m in a situation where the status quo I relied on has been taken away. With that foundation gone, I’m faced with a new challenge: to find my next platform, to build something new in the uncertainty of life. And in that uncertainty, fear creeps in.

When fear sets in, my mind tends to go into overdrive. I start processing every little detail, running through scenarios, options, and potential risks. I overthink. This is my cycle.

Maybe you know the feeling too—the endless cycle of worrying over every possible outcome. Recently, I decided to talk to my wife, Indira, about these fears. Having her there to help me bounce ideas off and gain some clarity really helped. Sometimes, all it takes is talking it through with someone you trust. But even after that conversation, fear remains.

The only way through, for me, is to trust yourself. Trust that you’ve done the work, made the best decisions, and will continue to do so. Do the research, communicate, and stay flexible—but above all, stay true to your values. They will guide you, especially in those moments when you feel unsure of the right path. Trusting yourself is a good way to move through fear, though it’s not the only way. Talking with others, gathering feedback, and seeking support are equally important. That’s the lesson I’ve learned.

Fear doesn’t just disappear, but you have to keep moving forward.

Each day, you take one step at a time.

With your values as your guide, you slowly move from one state of being to another. And when you look back at the journey—at all the smart decisions, the challenges, and the moments of doubt—you see how you made it through. Fear stayed behind. You’re still here, standing stronger than before, having accomplished what once seemed so daunting.

Fear may be a mind-killer, but it doesn’t have to be our end.

Keep thinking my friends!