What would you do if you had no fear? I came across this question when I was reading the Oprah magazine the other day. I saw all kinds of answers: I would quit my job as an accountant and take some photography courses. I’d like to see if I could make a career out of doing something that inspires me, instead of just working to make a living; I would open a coffee shop in our little town. I work part-time, and on the side I do a lot of baking and cooking for friend. I’d create a place that’s eclectic, warm, and inviting, where I could add a little sunshine to someone’s life; I would spend a year exploring the back roads of this country with my daughters. We’d go see the moving rocks in Death Valley, California, and the willows on the banks of the Mississippi. With nothing stopping us, we’d leave tomorrow……

Sheryl Sandberg asked the same question in her book “Lean in”. When she was giving a commencement address at an all-woman’s liberal arts school in New York City, she said, “…I hope you navigate the difficult times and come out with greater strength and resolve. I hope you find whatever balance you seek with your eyes wide open. And I hope that you – yes, you – have the ambition to lean in to your career and run the world. Because the world needs you to change it. Women all around the world are counting on you. So please ask yourself: What would I do if I weren’t afraid? And then go do it.”

Sandberg was trying to encourage women to have the leadership ambition, and to overcome the internal barriers to gaining power. She also acknowledged that not all women want career, not all women want children, and not all the women want both. I really appreciate that. It would be really ideal if people can just do what they enjoy and they’re good at as if there were no fear. But most times the thought of changing career paths and losing ground is scary, even though when you are currently doing something you totally hate.

So what would I do if I had no fear? I know it sounds like a dream – I would sell my property, buy some rental homes, and spend a year in southern France and Italy….. Maybe open a little café or an antique store. Who knows? Maybe someday I will…

What would you do if you had no fear, my friends?