Overcoming Fear

Good Morning Data Scientists,

Last week I was nervous as hell.

I sat frozen at my desk, twiddling my thumbs.

Paralysed, I knew I had to make a phone call.

I needed to tell my manager about the data handling protocol I’d breached.

Thoughts raced through my mind.

I saw images of me getting fired.

But it turned out like it always did.

I was worrying about nothing.

I’m sure you other overthinkers can relate.

It wasn’t a waste of time though.

We chatted for a bit and I came up with an idea to better document our data handling process.

He really liked it, and mentioned this to my colleagues.

It’s something else I can use to make a case for promotion in a few months.

So here’s the thing.

Whilst I was bricking it about telling my manager my mistakes it brought about something good.

So if you’re

• Embarrassed to ask ‘silly’ questions

• Afraid to seek help

• Scared to own up to your mistakes

Sure, acknowledge these feelings.

They’re normal!

But you need to overcome them.

And get the guidance you need.

Otherwise instead of fulfilling your potential.

You’ll be struggling forever.