Key points

“Be Fearless” sets an unrealistic goal and sends the wrong message.

A better message is "Fear Better," which embraces learning how to function with fear.

Allow fear to exist without controlling it; redirection reduces its hold.

Last week, as I was boarding a flight, I saw a woman wearing a sweatshirt that said “Be Fearless.” Yes, I’m a nervous flyer, and I specialize in anxiety disorders. But those weren’t the only reasons I had a problem with this sweatshirt. Its message was misleading. And given how often I see it, including on apparel, home decor, yoga studio walls, journals, and social media , I think it merits another viewpoint.

While not as catchy, a more accurate message is: “ Fear Better.” Not convinced? Here are three reasons why “Fear Better” is the better (

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