Ferriss Fear-Setting Exercise

What is Ferriss Fear-Setting Exercise?

When you're paralyzed by a decision, don't just set goals — set fears. Write down your worst-case scenario in detail, then realize it's survivable. More useful than goal-setting for overcoming procrastination and risk aversion.

Is there evidence for it?

How do you do Ferriss Fear-Setting Exercise?

1. 1.Write 3 columns: DEFINE (what's the absolute worst that could happen?), PREVENT (what can I do to prevent it?), REPAIR (if the worst happens, how would I fix it?)
2. 2.Under DEFINE: get specific. Not 'I might fail' but 'I might lose $5000, feel embarrassed for 2 weeks, and have to get a normal job again'
3. 3.Under PREVENT: list every specific action that reduces the probability of each feared outcome
4. 4.Under REPAIR: for each worst case, write how you'd get back to where you are now. Most recoveries take 1-3 months
5. 5.Now add a 4th column: COST OF INACTION. What does your life look like in 6 months, 1 year, 3 years if you do NOTHING? This is usually scarier than the worst case

How long does it take?

30-45 minutes for the exercise.

Is it hard to start?

medium.

This is one entry from the library Shift matches against. It is general information, not advice about you, and nothing on this page came from anyone's conversation.