Why are we more afraid of trying things as adults than we were as children?

Children see the world through different eyes. Eyes that do not (or prefer not to) perceive limitation or fear. Children tackle life with a sense of curiosity, imagination and fun. 

My 16 month old granddaughter is never afraid to try anything. She sees another child doing something and wants to do it too. This made me think, why is it adults seem to be more afraid to try new things? Fear can be a typical response to new challenges or experiences for many adults. As a result, they avoid the unfamiliar. They prefer NOT to risk attempting something new, leading to missed opportunities, and setting a negative pattern.

There are several reasons why children are less afraid to try things than adults:

1. Lack of experience: children have less experience with failure and disappointment, so they are less likely to be afraid of trying something new.

2. Curiosity: children are naturally curious and have a strong desire to explore and learn, which motivates them to try new things.

3. Less self-consciousness: Children are not as self-conscious as adults and are more willing to take risks and make mistakes.

4. Positive attitude: children have a more positive attitude towards learning and trying new things. They see failure as an opportunity to learn and grow.

5. Supportive environment: Children are often surrounded by supportive adults, such as parents, teachers, and coaches, who encourage them to try new things and take risks. This helps to build their confidence and reduce their fear of failure.

Fear is a natural human emotion that serves as a survival mechanism, but it can also hinder personal growth and limit opportunities. When we let fear hold us back, we miss out on the potential for new experiences, relationships, and achievements. Overcoming fear requires courage and willingness to take risks, but the rewards of doing so can be significant. By facing our fears and pushing past them, we develop resilience, confidence, and a sense of accomplishment. Therefore, we should never let fear hold us back, as it can prevent us from living our lives to the fullest, reaching our goals, and exploring our potential.