Everyone is scared of something. I am. You are. Even Harry Potter is scared of fear itself (and Dementors). The exact definition of fear is “an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain, or a threat.” Based on the definition and personal experiences, fear and the state of being scared are associated with pain and ultimately discomfort. This key component of discomfort is what allows something to be feared. Generally, people dislike being placed in an uncomfortable situation, whether that be dinner with divorced parents or in the middle of the ocean with nobody around. However, while some run and hide from their fears, others embrace it and go out searching for that one thing that makes their heart race and their palms sweat. Some go out and seek discomfort.
Recently, I came across a channel on YouTube. This channel consists of four guys, Ammar from Egypt, Thomas from France, Derin from Turkey, and Matt from the United States. These four met in Montreal in 2015 and were able to bond over a similar life goal that “life is best lived outside of your comfort zone” (Yes Theory). From that shared concept, Ammar, Thomas, Derin, and Matt went on to create videos for their YouTube channel, Yes Theory. The videos they create are all focused on attacking one’s fear and, in doing so, seeking discomfort. Their channel currently has 3 million subscribers. They had a show on Snapchat Discover, moved to Los Angeles, and have been adding to their group of 4 guys with each video, turning strangers into friends. While some of their content is lighthearted and done simply because they can (like their “We Fooled the Internet w/ Fake Justin Bieber Burrito Photo”), a majority of their videos are made to continue upon their pursuit of discomfort and embracing fear. I too used to be someone who, instead of taking fear and attacking it, ran away and hid because I feared what might happen to me and the possibility of pain. However, after watching Yes Theory, I have seen and now experienced first hand how saying yes can allow people to pursue their dreams and passions and achieve amazing things.
The concept of saying yes and embracing the things in our lives that may put us in an uncomfortable situation is very important. According to Yes Theory, “life can be as fulfilling and authentic as you wish so long as you’re willing to seek discomfort.” I know many people, including myself, who shy away from great opportunities and adventures as a result of fear and the “what ifs”. However, if more people decided to say yes as opposed to closing doors and therefore experiences, they would be able to live a happier and more fulfilling life. Of course, it is not going to be easy, but that doesn’t mean that facing fears is impossible. Fear should never be the reason to no and miss what could have been an amazing adventure. So, I urge you to watch a video or two by Yes Theory, and afterward, go. Go face and embrace your fears. Go and say yes. Go and seek discomfort.