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How to Write a Unique Essay on Fear | Guidelines, Examples, & Topics

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“F-E-A-R has two meanings – ‘Forget Everything and Run’ or ‘Face Everything and Rise.’ The choice is yours.” – Zig Ziglar

Picture this – You are standing at the edge of a deep and dark pit. The fear of what’s down there is gripping you, making each step forward feel like a massive challenge. However, the pit isn’t a real place – it represents the difficulty of turning your initial fear into a victory. Just as traversing through this dark pit demands considerable courage and strategy, so does composing an exceptional essay on ways to overcome fear.

Writing an impeccable essay on fear and ways to overcome it can be a life-altering experience. Truth be said, fear is an emotion that impacts every human being at various points in their lives. Thus, exploring the best ways to overcome it can offer crucial insights and even a certain kind of motivation.

In today’s detailed post, we will walk you through the effective guidelines to craft an exceptional essay on fear. Going through this blog diligently will enable you to share anecdotes, understand how the concept of fear works, or even offer practical ways to overcome it.

So, take a deep breath and let’s get started to transform your deep and dark fears into an impactful essay.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Craft an Essay on Fear

Undeniably, crafting an exceptional essay on fear might seem like a paradox. After all, how to dive deep into an emotion that can often be associated with apprehension and anxiety? However, crafting a fear essay can enable you to unravel one of the intense aspects of a human experience

It not only provides you with the golden opportunity to comprehend a strong emotion but also allows you to develop a strong connection with the readers on a basic human level. Now, if the idea of crafting an exceptional and flawless essay on fear is making you anxious, there is no need to fret.

Receive high-quality, original papers, free from AI-generated content.

Let’s take a look at certain effective guidelines that will enable you to pen down an insightful ‘fear’ essay like a pro –

A. Comprehend the Essence of Fear

Before you delve deep into writing your essay on fear, it is wise to invest adequate time to understand what fear truly is. Fear can be a complex emotion. It encompasses different physiological, psychological, and philosophical aspects. Now, fear can be a response from the instinct when someone faces a dangerous situation, a figment of one’s imagination, or even a learned behavior.

It is when you realize what emotion truly is and explain it in your own words then only you can set the stage for a subtle and informative paper .

On this note, have a look at the different ways fear can be evaluated in different contexts –

• Biological Perspective – In this context, you need to understand the ways fear impacts the body and brain. It is also crucial to understand the ‘fight or flight’
• Psychological Impact – On a psychological level, fear can impact decision-making, behavior, and mental health. Comprehending these psychological aspects will enable you to address the ways fear shapes individuals and their collective experiences.
• Cultural Interpretations – Various cultures tend to interpret and respond to fear in different ways. For instance, certain cultures focus on stoicism and courage, while others emphasize communal approaches to tackling fear. Evaluating these cultural interpretations can offer a richer context for your paper.

B. Comprehend the Requirements

Once you’re done understanding the true essence of fear, make sure to develop a lucid understanding of the essay prompt. Try to answer the following questions –

• What is the objective of the essay? Do you need to inform, narrate, or persuade?
• Are there any particular needs or limitations?
• Who is the target audience?

 For instance, a persuasive essay can ask you to argue why overcoming fear is critical for the personal growth of an individual, or a personal narrative essay will require you to detail your encounters with fear and ways you’ve managed to overcome the circumstance efficiently.

C. Formulate a Compelling Thesis Statement

The thesis statement forms the backbone or foundation of your fear essay. Hence, make sure to write it in a way that explains your key arguments or crucial insights on the concept of fear-relevant to the topic.

Further, your thesis must be debatable and specific. It should also offer a unique perspective on fear. Like, instead of simply stating that ‘ Fear is a strong emotion of human beings,’ you can say, ‘While fear is often presumed to be a draining force, it can serve as a catalyst that helps in personal growth and resilience of human beings.”

Further, ensure to test your thesis statement and evaluate if it presents a specific argument and whether it is backed up by detailed analysis or concrete examples.

D. Craft a Well-Structured Essay

It is essential to pen down a well-structured essay to present all your ideas clearly and efficiently. Here’s a basic structure outline you can follow while crafting your ‘fear’ essay –

Introduction

The introduction is the most significant aspect of your essay. This is mainly because your readers will either be engaged or turned off by the introduction. It also helps in developing the first impression on the readers and allows them to understand if it’s worth it to continue reading the essay. While writing the introduction, ensure to keep the below-enlisted aspects in mind –

• Hook – Ensure to start your ‘fear’ essay with an intriguing fact about fear, a quote, or an engaging anecdote. For instance – “Have fear ever caused a paralyzing fear in your body, making it difficult for you to move forward despite your wishes?”
• Background Context – Make sure to offer a certain background context on the theory of fear and its significance.
• Thesis Statement – Remember to state the key argument or the objective of your essay clearly. You can write something like, “Taming fear is not only a personal journey. It is also an important step one must take towards accomplishing one’s complete potential.”

Body Paragraphs

While composing the body paragraphs of your fear essay, make sure every paragraph focuses on a particular aspect of fear associated with your thesis statement. You can also use examples, analysis, and evidence to back up your ideas.

Make sure to summarize your key points and restate your thesis statement in the essay. Let’s take a look at the breakdown of what your fear essay conclusion should entail –

• Summary – Recap the key ideas and arguments discussed in the essay.
• Reflection – Make sure to reflect on the broader implications of conquering fear. It is also significant to focus on the personal and professional growth of humans.
• Closing Thought or Call to Action – Make sure to end your essay with a thought-provoking sentence. It could also end with a compelling call to action.

Example – “Often though the concept is feared itself, fear can be a strong teacher. When we encounter and combat our fears, we can unlock our potential for growth, resilience, and an in-depth connection with ourselves and others.”

E. Detailing is the Key

While writing an essay on fear, it is essential to explore the nitty-gritty of your fears. Make sure to describe everything in detail and make your readers feel and empathize with you and the fear you had. You can begin by describing how your fear began or the ways you discovered it. Try to delve deep into the specifics of the occurrence at this point, incorporating the year, how you discovered and the ways it occurred.

The ultimate objective here is to leverage the emotions of the reader and make them want to go on reading your paper. Remember, do not censor yourself while writing this kind of essay. This is primarily because every detail you leave while describing your fears may have been the reason why someone failed to read the rest of the paper and liked it.

For instance, if you are afraid of snakes, you can write something like – “I discovered my fear of snakes for the first time at my grandmother’s garden while I was watering plants. Right after I dug out the soil from the plants, I heard a hissing sound. As I turned around, I felt shivers running down my spine at the sight of a rattlesnake.”

However, avoid including unnecessary details. The key here is to strike the right balance between crafting significant moving moments and unnecessary details that are not required.

F. Write About the Day You Overcame Fear

 At this point, you have successfully captivated the attention of your readers and they’re following your writing style. Hence, try to be more detailed by explaining small parts of the day that led up to battling your fear. Make sure to incorporate even those people who helped you overcome your fear.

For instance, you’re writing an essay on the ‘Fear of Rollercoasters.’ So, you can write something to add detail like –

“On the first week of spring vacation, we decided to go to a nearby amusement park. Our travel group basically decided to get loose and have fun. There were so many fun things to do at the place that I wasn’t alarmed by anything. However, when we reached there, my friend Anne bought us tickets for a rollercoaster ride. At first, I made several attempts to deby politely. They finally convinced me and I agreed to get on the ride. I clutched my fist and started breathing heavily in anxiety. I felt that my death was near. As the rollercoaster started, my heart stopped beating at the first turn. However, when it ended, I enjoyed it thoroughly and was willing to go on dangerous rides.”

G. Engage with Your Readers

Crafting an essay on fear can be intense. However, it is a golden chance to establish a deep connection with your readers. Here are certain ways you can make your readers feel your experience truly or comprehend your perspective effectively –

• Use Vivid Descriptions – Use descriptive language to bring your examples and experiences to life while writing your essay. Explain the physical sensations and the emotional aspect of fear that enables your readers to form a strong connection with your narrative.
• Include Personal Anecdotes – Usually, personal stories can be relatable and powerful. So, make sure to share your own experiences or those of others who you’re writing about in the essay to elucidate your ideas. Like, you can describe how preparing for a major and challenging presentation finally allowed you to combat your fear of public speaking.
• Offer Practical Tips & Techniques – Try to provide practical strategies to your readers on ways to manage and overcome your fears. You can speak about remarkable techniques like gradual exposure, positive self-talk, or setting small and accomplishable objectives.

H. Polish Your Essay

The final stage in crafting an incredible essay on fear is revising and refining it to perfection. No essay is complete after the first draft. Hence, be sure to revisit your essay with a fresh set of eyes. Make sure to focus on its coherence, clarity, and style. Additionally, ensure every paragraph flows logically into the next and your arguments are supported remarkably.

Unique Fear Essay Samples to Draw Inspiration

Now that you’ve become well-versed in the effective guidelines to craft a unique fear essay, we thought of providing certain inspiring examples so you can connect the relevant theory to the practice. It will also enable you to have a visual understanding of the structure as well as the writing style of the fear essay.

Have a look at these samples rigorously to understand how to compose an outstanding fear essay effectively –

My Biggest Fear

Ever since I was a child, I have had a vivid memory that has become the greatest metaphor for my deepest fear – heights. It was a sultry autumn afternoon, and my cousin took me to a local fair in the town. The main highlight of the day was the huge Ferris wheel. From a distance, it seemed so huge that it seemed to touch the sky. I remembered the thrill of anticipation combined with an underlying sense of intense fear as I approached it. I always loved the thrill of taking rides, but the extreme height of the Ferris wheel made me feel so anxious that I couldn’t quite convey it in words.

My heart started racing and my palms became sweaty when I climbed into the small gondolas. As the wheel started moving, I felt a sudden heaviness in my chest. I started breathing heavily. With every rotation, my heartbeat started increasing exponentially. When we reached the top, I felt a sense of panic that almost paralyzed me. Then I saw the view. It was so breathtaking that I forgot the sinking feeling in my stomach immediately.

This experience left a lasting impression on me. Infact, it compelled me to enroll in a rock-climbing class. I was hoping to challenge my fears and overcome them. After that, the more I climbed, I understood my fear. I understood that it was not the height that terrified me but the loss of control it brought in me. Climbing the mountains became a metaphor for encountering different fears in life, acknowledging them, combating them, and eventually overcoming them.

Now, I see the experience of the Ferris wheel as the vital moment that set me on the path of personal growth. It helped me learn that fear is not something that must be avoided but managed. Thus, it helped me find a strength within myself that I didn’t know existed in me.

Why Humans Are Afraid of Death?

We as human beings have thought about death at a certain period in our lives. In a majority of cases, the topic of ‘death’ invokes fear and despair, as all of us are afraid of death. Again, certain people accept this inevitable stage and have absolutely no fear. These people have their reasons and certain specific ways to combat the universal frights. But, it can be intriguing to comprehend why the rest of humans are so afraid of death.

Some may presume that people are mostly afraid of pain, which is generally associated with death. However, this reason is secondary, as many tend to live in pain due to chronic diseases. Hence, it is not the pain that makes people shake like a leaf at the very thought of death. It is the fear of the unknown, as most of us tend not to know what will occur next.

Most of the time, people desire to comprehend the reasons for their lives. They aim to comprehend the secrets of death. However, most are not able to comprehend these secrets and this unawareness is what makes them feel insecure desperately.

50+ Intriguing and Inspiring Fear Essay Topics

Mastering the art of writing a fear essay doesn’t happen overnight. Since practice makes perfect, here are certain unique and intriguing topics for you to work on –

• Explore the role of fear in decision-making.
• Discuss the ways to overcome the fear of failure.
• Write about the ways to overcome the fear of making mistakes
• Explore the extent CCP controlled China through fear
• Explore the ways fear impacts the personal behavioral development of a human
• Discuss how Americans were afraid that Russian Nukes would one day come running from the skies to end civilization
• Write about anorexia nervosa. Discuss the symptoms and impacts of the fear of being obese.
• Do you think one gender provokes fear in another?
• Explore the ways ‘moral panic’ increases our fear of crimes
• Discuss the ways Charles Dickens developed a sense of fear throughout the horror-mystery story of ‘Signalman.’
• Explore the ways characters are impacted by fear in the film ‘ One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.’
• Discuss the ways one can combat and overcome the fear of public smoking.
• Write how atoms, germs, and fear combine to make a deadly cocktail.
• Explore the connection between fear, depression, and suicide.
• Do you think fear compels people to either Attack or Retreat?
• Explore the ways the memories of fear can be erased.
• Do you think Hitler used fear to control humans?
• Explore how ‘moral panic’ can increase the fear of crime in humans
• Do you think the general population in the recent era should be afraid of globalization?
• Write about the fear of missing out and how it influences decision-making in human beings.
• Discuss the fear of failure in individuals starting a new business.
• Discuss the ways Bram Stoker utilizes Gothic Conventions to instill suspense and fear in readers.
• Do you think the Fear Index is more useful in predicting downside risk with precision than econometric models?
• Explore why men and women perceive fear distinctly.
• Do you think the credibility of monetary policy diminishes the ‘Fear of Floating’?
• Describe the ways Steven Spielberg instilled fear and humor in the movie ‘Jaws.’
• Does fear possess the power to beat hope?
• Write how global fear can predict fear in the BRICS Stock Markets.
• Write about ‘The Fear of AdultHood’ in Catcher in the Rye, a novel by J.D. Salinger.
• Explore the ways to overcome the fear of rejection while pursuing creative endeavors.
• Discuss the fear associated with being vulnerable in professional settings.
• Discuss the fear of being rejected in social relationships
• Write about the fear of failure that exists in human beings in social relationships
• Describe the fear of being vulnerable in social situations
• Explore the fear of change in the advancement of their careers
• Write about fear and paranoia in Macbeth
• Write a detailed evaluation of the main kinds of fear like invitational, instinctual, and fear of trauma.
• Discuss the best ways to get over your fears.
• Explore the psychological aspects of fear.
• Write about the connection between fear and sexual issues existing in society.
• Explore how fear has evolved as a survival mechanism and the way it influences human behavior and social structures.
• Evaluate how fear can contribute to anxiety disorders and PTSD
• Discuss the relationship between traumatic experiences and never-ending fear
• Discuss the influence of modern technology, with the inclusion of surveillance and AI, on the sense of fear and privacy in human beings
• Evaluate the ethical implications of utilizing fear in the realm of advertising and consumer marketing
• Discuss the ways fear can be used as a motivator in different contexts like sports and education
• Write about the ways authors and filmmakers make use of fear to engage audiences and drive narratives
• Evaluate different types of common phobias and the most effective ways to treat them.
• Explore the relationship between fear and group behavior and social interactions, incorporating its role in conformity and leadership.
• Discuss how fear tends to change with age and the ways elderly individuals cope with fear-related issues.
• Discuss how human beings tend to respond to fear in highly stress-induced scenarios, like war or natural disasters.
• Explore your perspectives on Machiavelli’s claim to be either loved or feared.

Wrapping Up,  

Crafting a stellar and unique essay on fear can be a deeply personal and enriching experience. By implementing the guidelines mentioned above and drawing inspiration from the samples, you can easily pen down an essay that explores the way to overcome fear efficiently.

However, remember to be genuine, use ample compelling examples, and offer practical strategies to engage and motivate your readers. If you are still striving to share your journey with confidence or evaluate the broader implications of fear, you can get in touch with MyAssignmentHelp.com . We have a team of PhD and Master stalwarts who will use their skills and expertise to craft an essay that creates a meaningful impact. Happy Writing, Mates!

Frequently Asked Questions

How to start an essay on fear.

This is perhaps one of the most frequently asked questions by college students. One of the outstanding ways to start an essay about fear is with a compelling hook that engages the readers. You can use –

• A Provocative Question – “What drives us to encounter our deepest fears?”
• A Strong Quote – “Thinking will not overcome fear, but action will.”- W. Clement Stone.
• A Personal Anecdote – For this, you can share a brief story about a personal encounter with your fear, like spiders, to establish a connection with your readers.

 Then, you can offer certain context about the fear and introduce your thesis statement to outline the key argument or insight of your paper.

How can I make my fear essay engaging for my readers?

A close look at a PDF sample of a fear essay on our website will help you understand that though writing an engaging and compelling fear essay is mean feat to achieve, it is not impossible. You can implement the below-enlisted hacks and techniques to make your essay engaging –

• Explain the physical and emotional sensations of fear so that your readers can easily relate to the situation.
• Share case studies or certain personal anecdotes that clarify the ideas presented.
• Pose critical questions that motivate readers to think about their encounters with fear.
• Use relatable quotes from history, psychology, or literature to add credibility and depth to your ideas.

What common pitfalls should students avoid when writing an essay on fear?

Here are certain common pitfalls you must avoid to turn in an impeccable and stellar essay on fear –

• Not exploring the complicacies of fear or offering adequate analysis.
• Over-simplifying the concept of fear into a single aspect without acknowledging its multifaceted nature.
• Depending completely on personal perspectives or anecdotes without backing them up with concrete evidence or examples.
• Lastly, crafting in a way that doesn’t engage or resonate with your intended audience group.

What is a strong thesis statement in an essay on fear?

If you go through our fear essay samples for students, you will realize that a strong thesis statement of an essay on fear should always be specific, debatable, and reflective of the focus of your essay. You can write something like – “When understood and managed effectively, fear reveals itself not as a barrier. Instead, it acts as a catalyst that enables self-discovery and significant transformation.”

Can one use scientific research to support their essay on fear?

Yes absolutely. You can include scientific research to strengthen your essay on fear by offering empirical evidence and crucial insights. Let’s take a look at certain kinds of research college students can consider including in their ‘fear’ essay –

• Studies and Statistics demonstrate how fear impacts the brain and behavior of a human being.
• Psychological Models and Theories describing responses to fear and its management
• Case Studies or Real-Life Examples that elucidate the various aspects of fear

How to narrow down my topic of fear essay?

The first step in writing a winning ‘fear’ essay lies in choosing an intriguing and compelling topic. Follow the below-listed strategies to narrow your topic of fear essay –

• Select a specific aspect of fear like phobias, social anxiety, or existential dread.
• Reflect on your encounters with fear or areas that intrigue you
• Consider various cultural or historical perspectives on fear to look for an angle that fascinates you
• Determine whether you aim to address fear from a philosophical, psychological, or societal perspective.

Cooper Robinson

Hi, I am Cooper Robinson. I am a full-time academic writer with expertise in essay writing. Having completed my Master's degree, I worked as an English professor. For six long years, I had been reading hundreds of essays with repetitive content, zero creativity, and full of copied facts. Listing Now, I am on a mission to make all those dull essays sparkle, so that students do not miss out on top grades. I'veI've written a couple of guest posts on essay writing for prominent academic writing sites. Apart from English essay writing, I love coffee and sushi. When I am not making essay warriors out of students, I am probably off to some fishing or biking adventure. 

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Fear — How to Overcome Our Fears

How to Overcome Our Fears

• Categories: Fear

About this sample

Words: 367 |

Published: Feb 12, 2019

Words: 367 | Page: 1 | 2 min read

Fear Essay: Hook Examples

• The Fear Factor: “Fear – the invisible force that keeps us from realizing our full potential. Are you ready to conquer it and unlock your life’s true force?”
• Breaking the Chains of Fear: “Fear is the silent prison that many never escape. Let’s explore how to break free from its grip and unleash the power within.”
• From Fear to Freedom: “In a world where fear holds so many hostage, it’s time to discover the path from fear to freedom. Join us on this journey of transformation.”
• The Fear Paradox: “Fear, like a shadow, follows us closely, yet it can be our greatest teacher. How can we turn fear from a foe into a friend on our journey to self-discovery?”
• Unlocking Your Inner Courage: “Within every person lies an inner wellspring of courage waiting to be tapped. Learn how to unlock this courage and face fear head-on.”

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Overcoming Fear: the Path to Courage and Personal Triumph

How it works

• 1.1 Conquering the Uncharted Territory of Thrill Rides
• 1.2 The Lesson of Overcoming Fear
• 1.3 From Fear to Courage: A Personal and Academic Transformation

Facing the Roller Coaster of Fear

Accomplishments an individual achieves create memories and a newfound aspiration to fulfill many more goals. Fear is something everyone feels at a certain point in time. At a point in time, not too long ago, a fear consumed me, which would cause my hands to shake and my body to break out in a cold sweat. On July 20, the summer of 2018, I experienced these exact reactions as I waited speechless for take-off on the Hulk rollercoaster ride in Islands of Adventure.

Three simple words helped me conquer this, “Live without fear,” something my uncle always used to say to me.

Conquering the Uncharted Territory of Thrill Rides

For most students and teens, amusement parks are places to enjoy exciting and thrill-seeking roller coasters. But being one of the few teens who will not even wait in line for one without completely going insane, I choose to pass my chances of going on them. This was until the summer of 2018 when I and my best friend got free tickets to Islands of Adventure. While at the park, my friend insisted we go on the Hulk ride, so I went along with it. As we approached the line, my hands started to tremble, my body started getting cold sweats, and I became noiseless. We got on the seats, and as soon as the staff secured the big green bar straps over my head. I started getting all these different emotions of excitement, anxiety, and fear. I closed my eyes, trying to shut off everything around me as well, and all I could hear in the vast silence were the words “ live without fear,” the words my uncle would always use to tell me. This had me at more ease than before. The Hulk ride was about to commence in three…two…one. We launched out of the tunnel at an accelerating speed, heading to one loop after the other. All I did was scream and feel the pure bliss of the wind against my face as I realized I was no longer scared of riding. Instead, I realized how glad I was to experience such an exhilarating and exciting moment.

The Lesson of Overcoming Fear

I might as well learn to overcome fear now rather than avoid it again and again, only to deal with it eventually. In this world, there will be new opportunities that might be scary, maybe even petrifying, but I have learned to confront them. That’s what I learned about conquering my fears; I had to first ride on the roller coaster to realize how enjoyable it actually was. This world can throw many obstacles my way, but I have now learned that I must see past them and transcend them.

From Fear to Courage: A Personal and Academic Transformation

I now know that fear vanishes when I no longer worry about it, and the only way to not worry about it is to push through. Something I learned from this experience is that I was no longer fearful; instead, I became courageous. In fact, this has helped me as a person as well as a student. In school, sometimes we were put in situations where we had to deal with fighting and scary things such as presentations. After all that has happened, like overcoming my fear of roller coasters, I now perceive things differently. For example, things like presentations are just another small obstacle that I face, although a while ago, I thought it was a big deal. I’m now willing to surpass whatever is put in front of me, and I do it because I have learned to stand up against the odds without flinching.

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Essay on Overcoming Fear – Short Essay & Long Essay upto 1500 Words

Essay on Overcoming Fear: Fear is a powerful emotion that can hold us back from reaching our full potential. It can prevent us from taking risks, pursuing our dreams, and living life to the fullest. In this essay, we will explore the concept of overcoming fear and how it can lead to personal growth and success. By facing our fears head-on, we can break free from the constraints that hold us back and unlock our true potential. Join me on this journey as we delve into the power of overcoming fear.

Table of Contents

Overcoming Fear Essay Writing Tips

1. Start by identifying the fear you want to overcome. It could be a fear of failure, rejection, public speaking, or anything else that is holding you back.

2. Understand the root cause of your fear. Try to pinpoint where this fear originated from and why it has such a strong hold on you. This self-awareness will help you address the fear more effectively.

3. Challenge your negative thoughts and beliefs. Often, our fears are fueled by irrational thoughts and beliefs. Question these beliefs and challenge them with evidence that contradicts them.

4. Take small steps towards facing your fear. Gradually expose yourself to situations that trigger your fear, starting with less intimidating scenarios and working your way up to more challenging ones.

5. Practice relaxation techniques to help manage your anxiety. Deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness can all help calm your nerves and reduce the physical symptoms of fear.

6. Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist. Talking about your fears with someone you trust can provide valuable perspective and encouragement as you work towards overcoming them.

7. Focus on the positive outcomes of facing your fear. Visualize yourself successfully overcoming your fear and imagine how much more fulfilling your life will be once you are no longer held back by it.

8. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Each step you take towards overcoming your fear is a victory worth celebrating, so be sure to acknowledge and reward yourself for your efforts.

9. Stay committed to the process. Overcoming fear is not easy and may take time, but with persistence and determination, you can conquer even your most deeply ingrained fears.

10. Reflect on your journey and the lessons you have learned. Writing about your experiences and the strategies that helped you overcome your fear can be a powerful way to solidify your progress and inspire others facing similar challenges.

By following these tips and staying dedicated to the process, you can successfully overcome your fears and live a more fulfilling and empowered life.

Essay on Overcoming Fear in 10 Lines – Examples

1. Recognize and acknowledge your fear. 2. Understand the root cause of your fear. 3. Challenge negative thoughts and beliefs. 4. Practice relaxation techniques to calm your mind and body. 5. Take small steps towards facing your fear. 6. Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist. 7. Focus on positive outcomes and visualize success. 8. Set realistic goals and celebrate small victories. 9. Embrace discomfort and learn from your experiences. 10. Remember that fear is a natural emotion and it is possible to overcome it with time and effort.

Sample Essay on Overcoming Fear in 100-180 Words

Fear is a natural human emotion that can often hold us back from reaching our full potential. Whether it’s fear of failure, rejection, or the unknown, overcoming fear is essential for personal growth and success. One way to conquer fear is to face it head-on. By confronting our fears and pushing ourselves out of our comfort zones, we can build confidence and resilience. Another effective strategy is to reframe our mindset and focus on the positive outcomes that can result from taking risks. Surrounding ourselves with supportive and encouraging people can also help us overcome fear by providing a sense of security and encouragement. Ultimately, overcoming fear requires courage, determination, and a willingness to take risks. By challenging ourselves to confront our fears and push past our limitations, we can unlock our full potential and achieve our goals.

Short Essay on Overcoming Fear in 200-500 Words

Fear is a powerful emotion that can hold us back from achieving our full potential. It can manifest in many different forms, from fear of failure to fear of the unknown. However, it is important to recognize that fear is a natural response to certain situations, and it is how we choose to respond to that fear that ultimately determines our success.

One of the first steps in overcoming fear is to acknowledge and understand it. By identifying the source of our fear, we can begin to address it head-on. This may involve facing our fears head-on, or seeking support from others who have overcome similar challenges. It is important to remember that we are not alone in our fears, and that there are always resources available to help us navigate through them.

Another important aspect of overcoming fear is to change our mindset. Instead of viewing fear as a roadblock, we can choose to see it as an opportunity for growth and self-improvement. By reframing our thoughts and beliefs about fear, we can begin to see it as a stepping stone towards achieving our goals.

Taking small steps towards facing our fears can also be helpful in overcoming them. By gradually exposing ourselves to the things that scare us, we can build up our confidence and resilience over time. This may involve setting small, achievable goals for ourselves, and celebrating each success along the way.

Seeking support from others can also be instrumental in overcoming fear. Whether it is through therapy, coaching, or simply talking to a trusted friend or family member, having a support system in place can provide us with the encouragement and guidance we need to push through our fears.

Ultimately, overcoming fear is a journey that requires patience, persistence, and self-compassion. It is important to remember that it is okay to feel afraid, and that it is a normal part of the human experience. By acknowledging our fears, changing our mindset, taking small steps, and seeking support, we can begin to conquer our fears and live a more fulfilling and empowered life.

Essay on Overcoming Fear in 1000-1500 Words

Fear is a powerful emotion that can hold us back from achieving our full potential. It can paralyze us, preventing us from taking risks and pursuing our dreams. However, overcoming fear is essential if we want to live a fulfilling and successful life. In this essay, I will discuss the importance of overcoming fear, the different types of fear we may encounter, and strategies for conquering fear.

Fear is a natural response to danger or perceived threats. It is a survival mechanism that has evolved over millions of years to protect us from harm. When we encounter a dangerous situation, our bodies release adrenaline, triggering the fight-or-flight response. This response prepares us to either confront the threat or flee from it. While fear can be a useful tool in certain situations, it can also be a hindrance when it becomes excessive or irrational.

There are many different types of fear that we may encounter in our lives. One common type of fear is fear of failure. This fear can prevent us from taking risks and trying new things, leading to missed opportunities and regrets. Another common fear is fear of rejection. This fear can hold us back from forming meaningful relationships and pursuing our goals. Fear of the unknown is also a common fear that can prevent us from stepping out of our comfort zones and exploring new possibilities.

Overcoming fear is essential if we want to live a fulfilling and successful life. When we allow fear to control us, we limit our potential and miss out on valuable experiences. By confronting our fears and pushing past our comfort zones, we can grow and develop as individuals. Overcoming fear can also lead to increased confidence and self-esteem, as we prove to ourselves that we are capable of facing our fears and overcoming obstacles.

There are several strategies that can help us overcome fear. One effective strategy is to confront our fears head-on. By facing our fears directly, we can desensitize ourselves to them and reduce their power over us. This may involve gradually exposing ourselves to the source of our fear, starting with small steps and gradually increasing the level of exposure. For example, if we have a fear of public speaking, we can start by speaking in front of a small group of friends and gradually work our way up to larger audiences.

Another strategy for overcoming fear is to reframe our thoughts and beliefs. Often, our fears are based on irrational or distorted thinking patterns. By challenging these negative beliefs and replacing them with more realistic and positive ones, we can reduce the intensity of our fear. For example, if we have a fear of failure, we can remind ourselves that failure is a natural part of the learning process and does not define our worth as individuals.

Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques can also help us overcome fear. By learning to stay present in the moment and focus on our breathing, we can reduce anxiety and calm our minds. This can help us approach our fears with a sense of calm and clarity, making it easier to confront them.

Seeking support from others can also be beneficial in overcoming fear. Talking to friends, family members, or a therapist about our fears can provide us with valuable insights and perspectives. They can offer encouragement, advice, and reassurance, helping us to feel less alone in our struggles. Support groups and online forums can also be valuable resources for connecting with others who are facing similar fears.

In conclusion, overcoming fear is essential if we want to live a fulfilling and successful life. By confronting our fears, challenging negative beliefs, practicing mindfulness, and seeking support from others, we can reduce the power of fear over us and take control of our lives. While overcoming fear may not be easy, the rewards are well worth the effort. As we push past our comfort zones and confront our fears, we can grow and develop as individuals, leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

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student opinion

How Do You Overcome Your Fears?

Amanda Gorman describes how she conquered her fears to deliver her stunning poem at last year’s presidential inauguration. What do you do to deal with your doubts?

By Jeremy Engle

Did you watch Amanda Gorman read her poem “The Hill We Climb” at President Biden’s inauguration last January? If so, what was your reaction? What did her words and delivery make you think or feel?

Her performance was lauded as much for the beauty of her words as it was for the then-23-year old’s composure on the big stage. Would you be surprised to learn that Ms. Gorman was so filled with fear that she had almost declined her invitation to perform that day?

What kinds of activities fill you with dread? Have you ever been overwhelmed with fear and anxiety before a big performance, presentation or event? How did you respond?

In “ Why I Almost Didn’t Read My Poem at the Inauguration ,” Ms. Gorman describes how she was able to overcome her fears and deliver a powerful and memorable oration:

It’s told like this: Amanda Gorman performed at the inauguration and the rest is history. The truth is I almost declined to be the inaugural poet. Why? I was terrified. I was scared of failing my people, my poetry. But I was also terrified on a physical level. Covid was still raging, and my age group couldn’t get vaccinated yet. Just a few weeks before, domestic terrorists assaulted the U.S. Capitol, the very steps where I would recite. I didn’t know then that I’d become famous, but I did know at the inauguration I was going to become highly visible — which is a very dangerous thing to be in America, especially if you’re Black and outspoken and have no Secret Service. It didn’t help that I was getting DMs from friends telling me not-so-jokingly to buy a bulletproof vest. My mom had us crouch in our living room so that she could practice shielding my body from bullets. A loved one warned me to “be ready to die” if I went to the Capitol building, telling me, “It’s just not worth it.” I had insomnia and nightmares, barely ate or drank for days. I finally wrote to some close friends and family, telling them that I was most likely going to pull out of the ceremony. I got some texts praising the Lord. I got called pathologically insane. But I knew only I could answer the question for myself: Was this poem worth it? The night before I was to give the Inaugural Committee my final decision felt like the longest of my life. My neighborhood was eerily quiet in that early morning dark, though I strained my ears for noise to distract me from the choice that lay ahead. It felt like my little world stood still. And then it struck me: Maybe being brave enough doesn’t mean lessening my fear, but listening to it. I closed my eyes in bed and let myself utter all the leviathans that scared me, both monstrous and minuscule. What stood out most of all was the worry that I’d spend the rest of my life wondering what this poem could have achieved. There was only one way to find out. By the time the sun rose I knew one thing for sure: I was going to be the 2021 inaugural poet. I can’t say I was completely confident in my choice, but I was completely committed to it.

Students, read the entire article and then tell us:

When was a time when you were able to overcome your fears or doubts? What did you have to do, why did it fill you with anxiety and from where did you draw your strength to succeed?

What strategies have you used to deal with your worries or dread? Do you state your fears out loud or recite mantras, like Ms. Gorman? How effective have these approaches been? What advice would you give others based on your own experiences?

Have your fears ever kept you from doing something you wanted to do, something important? How did you feel turning down the opportunity? What might you do differently now that you have read the article?

What is your reaction to the essay? Are you surprised to learn that a successful poet was filled with terror before a big performance? Do the fears and self-doubts Ms. Gorman described in her essay resonate with your own experiences?

Ms. Gorman writes:

Yet fear can be love trying its best in the dark. So do not fear your fear. Own it. Free it. This isn’t a liberation that I or anyone can give you — it’s a power you must look for, learn, love, lead and locate for yourself.

What do you think of this advice? Do you agree you should not fear your fear, but own it?

Want more writing prompts? You can find all of our questions in our Student Opinion column . Teachers, check out this guide to learn how you can incorporate them into your classroom.

Students 13 and older in the United States and Britain, and 16 and older elsewhere, are invited to comment. All comments are moderated by the Learning Network staff, but please keep in mind that once your comment is accepted, it will be made public.

Jeremy Engle joined The Learning Network as a staff editor in 2018 after spending more than 20 years as a classroom humanities and documentary-making teacher, professional developer and curriculum designer working with students and teachers across the country. More about Jeremy Engle

Essay on How to Overcome Fear

Students are often asked to write an essay on How to Overcome Fear in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on How to Overcome Fear

Understanding fear.

Fear is a natural response to danger, but sometimes it can be overwhelming. Understanding what fear is and why we experience it can help to manage it.

Identifying the Fear

The first step to overcoming fear is identifying it. Is it a fear of heights, spiders, or public speaking? Once you know what scares you, you can start to confront it.

Gradual Exposure

Start by gradually exposing yourself to the thing you fear. If you’re scared of dogs, start by looking at pictures, then maybe visit a pet shop.

Positive Thinking

When fear strikes, try to replace negative thoughts with positive ones. This can help to reduce the intensity of your fear.

Seeking Help

If your fear is too much to handle alone, don’t be afraid to seek help. A trusted adult or a professional can provide useful guidance and support.

250 Words Essay on How to Overcome Fear

Fear, a primal human emotion, is a response to perceived threats. It serves as a protective mechanism, alerting us to danger. However, when fear becomes overwhelming, it can hinder our daily lives and decision-making processes.

Identifying the Source

The first step in overcoming fear is identifying its source. Fear can stem from past experiences, perceived future events, or even an overactive imagination. By pinpointing the root cause, we can confront our fears directly.

Exposure Therapy

Exposure therapy is a common method used to combat fears. It involves gradually and repeatedly exposing oneself to the fear source. Over time, this can help desensitize our reaction to the fear stimulus.

Positive Affirmations

Positive affirmations can help in reshaping our thought patterns. By consistently practicing positive self-talk, we can replace fear-induced thoughts with empowering beliefs.

Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness and meditation can aid in managing fear. By focusing on the present, we can avoid getting trapped in past fear-inducing experiences or worrying about future uncertainties.

Professional Help

Sometimes, fear can be deeply ingrained, requiring professional help. Therapists and psychologists are trained to help individuals navigate their fears and develop coping strategies.

In conclusion, overcoming fear is a process that requires understanding, confrontation, and practice. By identifying the source of fear, utilizing techniques like exposure therapy, positive affirmations, and mindfulness, and seeking professional help when needed, we can gradually learn to manage and overcome our fears.

500 Words Essay on How to Overcome Fear

Fear is a common human emotion, an instinctive response to perceived threats or danger. It can be both a protective mechanism, alerting us to potential harm, and a hindrance, preventing us from pursuing our goals or engaging fully in life. Understanding fear is the first step towards overcoming it. Fear can be categorized into two types: acute fear, which is immediate and temporary, and chronic fear, which is long-term and often irrational, such as phobias or anxiety disorders.

The Role of Perception in Fear

Perception plays a crucial role in fear. Our brains are wired to make rapid assessments of situations and respond accordingly. This is why we might feel afraid when walking alone at night, even if we are in a safe area. Our perception of the situation, rather than the reality, drives our fear. To overcome fear, we need to challenge and change our perceptions.

Strategies to Overcome Fear

There are several strategies that can help in overcoming fear.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a type of psychotherapy that can be highly effective in managing fear. It involves identifying negative thought patterns and challenging them with rational, positive thoughts. For example, if you have a fear of public speaking, CBT would involve identifying thoughts like “I will mess up and everyone will laugh at me,” and replacing them with more rational thoughts like “I have prepared well and I am capable.”

Exposure therapy is another effective strategy, particularly for phobias and anxiety disorders. It involves gradually and repeatedly exposing yourself to the thing you fear, in a controlled and safe environment, until your fear response decreases.

Mindfulness and meditation can also be beneficial in managing fear. By focusing on the present moment, rather than worrying about the future or dwelling on the past, we can reduce anxiety and fear. Techniques such as deep breathing, visualization, and progressive muscle relaxation can help to calm the mind and body.

Physical Activity

Physical activity is another effective tool in combating fear. Exercise can reduce stress hormones and stimulate the production of endorphins, chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators.

Seeking Professional Help

If fear is significantly impacting your life, it may be helpful to seek professional help. Therapists and counselors are trained to help you understand and manage your fears.

Fear is a complex emotion that can both protect us and hold us back. By understanding the nature of fear, challenging our perceptions, and utilizing strategies such as CBT, exposure therapy, mindfulness, meditation, physical activity, and professional help, we can learn to manage and overcome our fears. Remember, courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

• Essay on Fear of Failure
• Essay on My Favourite Subject
• Essay on My Favorite Subject English

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

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How to Write the “Overcoming Challenges” Essay + Examples

What’s covered:.

• What is the Overcoming Challenges Essay?
• Real Overcoming Challenges Essay Prompts
• How to Choose a Topic
• Writing Tips

Overcoming Challenges Essay Examples

• Where to Get Your Essay Edited

While any college essay can be intimidating, the Overcoming Challenges prompt often worries students the most. Those students who’ve been lucky enough not to experience trauma tend to assume they have nothing worth saying. On the other hand, students who’ve overcome larger obstacles may be hesitant to talk about them.

Regardless of your particular circumstances, there are steps you can take to make the essay writing process simpler. Here are our top tips for writing the overcoming challenges essay successfully.

What is the “Overcoming Challenges” Essay?

The overcoming challenges prompt shows up frequently in both main application essays (like the Common App) and supplemental essays. Because supplemental essays allow students to provide schools with additional information, applicants should be sure that the subject matter they choose to write about differs from what’s in their main essay.

Students often assume the overcoming challenges essay requires them to detail past traumas. While you can certainly write about an experience that’s had a profound effect on your life, it’s important to remember that colleges aren’t evaluating students based on the seriousness of the obstacle they overcame.

On the contrary, the goal of this essay is to show admissions officers that you have the intelligence and fortitude to handle any challenges that come your way. After all, college serves as an introduction to adult life, and schools want to know that the students they admit are up to the task. 

Real “Overcoming Challenges” Essay Prompts

To help you understand what the “Overcoming Challenges” essay looks like, here are a couple sample prompts.

Currently, the Common Application asks students to answer the following prompt in 650 words or less:

“The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?”

For the past several years, MIT has prompted students to write 200 to 250 words on the following:

“Tell us about the most significant challenge you’ve faced or something important that didn’t go according to plan. How did you manage the situation?”

In both cases, the prompts explicitly ask for your response to the challenge. The event itself isn’t as important as how it pushed you to grow.

How to Choose a Topic for an Essay on Overcoming Challenges

When it comes to finding the best topic for your overcoming challenges essays, there’s no right answer. The word “challenge” is ambiguous and could be used to reference a wide range of situations from prevailing over a bully to getting over your lifelong stage fright to appear in a school musical. Here are some suggestions to keep in mind when selecting an essay subject.

1. Avoid trivial or common topics

While there aren’t many hard-and-fast rules for choosing an essay topic, students should avoid overdone topics.

These include:

• Working hard in a challenging class
• Overcoming a sports injury
• Moving schools or immigrating to the US
• Tragedy (divorce, death, abuse)

Admissions officers have read numerous essays on the subject, so it’s harder for you to stand out (see our full list of cliché college essay topics to avoid ). If events like these were truly formative to you, you can still choose to write about them, but you’ll need to be as personal as possible. 

It’s also ideal if you have a less traditional storyline for a cliché topic; for example, if your sports injury led you to discover a new passion, that would be a more unique story than detailing how you overcame your injury and got back in the game.

Similarly, students may not want to write about an obstacle that admissions committees could perceive as low stakes, such as getting a B on a test, or getting into a small fight with a friend. The goal of this essay is to illustrate how you respond to adversity, so the topic you pick should’ve been at least impactful on your personal growth.

2. Pick challenges that demonstrate qualities you want to highlight

Students often mistakenly assume they need to have experienced exceptional circumstances like poverty, an abusive parent, or cancer to write a good essay. The truth is that the best topics will allow you to highlight specific personal qualities and share more about who you are. The essay should be less about the challenge itself, and more about how you responded to it.

Ask yourself what personality traits you want to emphasize, and see what’s missing in your application. Maybe you want to highlight your adaptability, for example, but that isn’t clearly expressed in your application. In this case, you might write about a challenge that put your adaptability to the test, or shaped you to become more adaptable.

Here are some examples of good topics we’ve seen over the years:

• Not having a coach for a sports team and becoming one yourself
• Helping a parent through a serious health issue
• Trying to get the school track dedicated to a coach
• Having to switch your Model UN position last-minute

Tips for Writing an Essay About Overcoming Challenges

Once you’ve selected a topic for your essays, it’s time to sit down and write. For best results, make sure your essay focuses on your efforts to tackle an obstacle rather than the problem itself. Additionally, you could avoid essay writing pitfalls by doing the following:

1. Choose an original essay structure

If you want your overcoming challenges essay to attract attention, aim to break away from more traditional structures. Most of these essays start by describing an unsuccessful attempt at a goal and then explain the steps the writer took to master the challenge. 

You can stand out by choosing a challenge you’re still working on overcoming, or focus on a mental or emotional challenge that spans multiple activities or events. For example, you might discuss your fear of public speaking and how that impacted your ability to coach your brother’s Little League team and run for Student Council. 

You can also choose a challenge that can be narrated in the moment, such as being put on the spot to teach a yoga class. These challenges can make particularly engaging essays, as you get to experience the writer’s thoughts and emotions as they unfold.

Keep in mind that you don’t necessarily need to have succeeded in your goal for this essay. Maybe you ran for an election and lost, or maybe you proposed a measure to the school board that wasn’t passed. It’s still possible to write a strong essay about topics like these as long as you focus on your personal growth. In fact, these may make for even stronger essays since they are more unconventional topics.

2. Focus on the internal

When writing about past experiences, you may be tempted to spend too much time describing specific people and events. With an Overcoming Challenges essay though, the goal is to focus on your thoughts and feelings.

For example, rather than detail all the steps you took to become a better public speaker, use the majority of your essay to describe your mental state as you embarked on the journey to achieving your goals. Were you excited, scared, anxious, or hopeful? Don’t be afraid to let the reader in on your innermost emotions and thoughts during this process.

3. Share what you learned 

An Overcoming Challenges essay should leave the reader with a clear understanding of what you learned on your journey, be it physical, mental, or emotional. There’s no need to explicitly say “this experience taught me X,” but your essay should at least implicitly share any lessons you learned. This can be done through your actions and in-the-moment reflections. Remember that the goal is to show admissions committees why your experiences make you a great candidate for admission. 

Was I no longer the beloved daughter of nature, whisperer of trees? Knee-high rubber boots, camouflage, bug spray—I wore the g arb and perfume of a proud wild woman, yet there I was, hunched over the pathetic pile of stubborn sticks, utterly stumped, on the verge of tears. As a child, I had considered myself a kind of rustic princess, a cradler of spiders and centipedes, who was serenaded by mourning doves and chickadees, who could glide through tick-infested meadows and emerge Lyme-free. I knew the cracks of the earth like the scars on my own rough palms. Yet here I was, ten years later, incapable of performing the most fundamental outdoor task: I could not, for the life of me, start a fire. 

Furiously I rubbed the twigs together—rubbed and rubbed until shreds of skin flaked from my fingers. No smoke. The twigs were too young, too sticky-green; I tossed them away with a shower of curses, and began tearing through the underbrush in search of a more flammable collection. My efforts were fruitless. Livid, I bit a rejected twig, determined to prove that the forest had spurned me, offering only young, wet bones that would never burn. But the wood cracked like carrots between my teeth—old, brittle, and bitter. Roaring and nursing my aching palms, I retreated to the tent, where I sulked and awaited the jeers of my family. 

Rattling their empty worm cans and reeking of fat fish, my brother and cousins swaggered into the campsite. Immediately, they noticed the minor stick massacre by the fire pit and called to me, their deep voices already sharp with contempt. 

“Where’s the fire, Princess Clara?” they taunted. “Having some trouble?” They prodded me with the ends of the chewed branches and, with a few effortless scrapes of wood on rock, sparked a red and roaring flame. My face burned long after I left the fire pit. The camp stank of salmon and shame. 

In the tent, I pondered my failure. Was I so dainty? Was I that incapable? I thought of my hands, how calloused and capable they had been, how tender and smooth they had become. It had been years since I’d kneaded mud between my fingers; instead of scaling a white pine, I’d practiced scales on my piano, my hands softening into those of a musician—fleshy and sensitive. And I’d gotten glasses, having grown horrifically nearsighted; long nights of dim lighting and thick books had done this. I couldn’t remember the last time I had lain down on a hill, barefaced, and seen the stars without having to squint. Crawling along the edge of the tent, a spider confirmed my transformation—he disgusted me, and I felt an overwhelming urge to squash him. 

Yet, I realized I hadn’t really changed—I had only shifted perspective. I still eagerly explored new worlds, but through poems and prose rather than pastures and puddles. I’d grown to prefer the boom of a bass over that of a bullfrog, learned to coax a different kind of fire from wood, having developed a burn for writing rhymes and scrawling hypotheses. 

That night, I stayed up late with my journal and wrote about the spider I had decided not to kill. I had tolerated him just barely, only shrieking when he jumped—it helped to watch him decorate the corners of the tent with his delicate webs, knowing that he couldn’t start fires, either. When the night grew cold and the embers died, my words still smoked—my hands burned from all that scrawling—and even when I fell asleep, the ideas kept sparking—I was on fire, always on fire.

This essay is an excellent example because the writer turns an everyday challenge—starting a fire—into an exploration of her identity. The writer was once “a kind of rustic princess, a cradler of spiders and centipedes,” but has since traded her love of the outdoors for a love of music, writing, and reading. 

The story begins in media res , or in the middle of the action, allowing readers to feel as if we’re there with the writer. One of the essay’s biggest strengths is its use of imagery. We can easily visualize the writer’s childhood and the present day. For instance, she states that she “rubbed and rubbed [the twigs] until shreds of skin flaked from my fingers.”

The writing has an extremely literary quality, particularly with its wordplay. The writer reappropriates words and meanings, and even appeals to the senses: “My face burned long after I left the fire pit. The camp stank of salmon and shame.” She later uses a parallelism to cleverly juxtapose her changed interests: “instead of scaling a white pine, I’d practiced scales on my piano.”

One of the essay’s main areas of improvement is its overemphasis on the “story” and lack of emphasis on the reflection. The second to last paragraph about changing perspective is crucial to the essay, as it ties the anecdote to larger lessons in the writer’s life. She states that she hasn’t changed, but has only shifted perspective. Yet, we don’t get a good sense of where this realization comes from and how it impacts her life going forward. 

The end of the essay offers a satisfying return to the fire imagery, and highlights the writer’s passion—the one thing that has remained constant in her life.

“Getting beat is one thing – it’s part of competing – but I want no part in losing.” Coach Rob Stark’s motto never fails to remind me of his encouragement on early-morning bus rides to track meets around the state. I’ve always appreciated the phrase, but an experience last June helped me understand its more profound, universal meaning.

Stark, as we affectionately call him, has coached track at my high school for 25 years. His care, dedication, and emphasis on developing good character has left an enduring impact on me and hundreds of other students. Not only did he help me discover my talent and love for running, but he also taught me the importance of commitment and discipline and to approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running. When I learned a neighboring high school had dedicated their track to a longtime coach, I felt that Stark deserved similar honors.

Our school district’s board of education indicated they would only dedicate our track to Stark if I could demonstrate that he was extraordinary. I took charge and mobilized my teammates to distribute petitions, reach out to alumni, and compile statistics on the many team and individual champions Stark had coached over the years. We received astounding support, collecting almost 3,000 signatures and pages of endorsements from across the community. With help from my teammates, I presented this evidence to the board.

They didn’t bite. 

Most members argued that dedicating the track was a low priority. Knowing that we had to act quickly to convince them of its importance, I called a team meeting where we drafted a rebuttal for the next board meeting. To my surprise, they chose me to deliver it. I was far from the best public speaker in the group, and I felt nervous about going before the unsympathetic board again. However, at that second meeting, I discovered that I enjoy articulating and arguing for something that I’m passionate about.

Public speaking resembles a cross country race. Walking to the starting line, you have to trust your training and quell your last minute doubts. When the gun fires, you can’t think too hard about anything; your performance has to be instinctual, natural, even relaxed. At the next board meeting, the podium was my starting line. As I walked up to it, familiar butterflies fluttered in my stomach. Instead of the track stretching out in front of me, I faced the vast audience of teachers, board members, and my teammates. I felt my adrenaline build, and reassured myself: I’ve put in the work, my argument is powerful and sound. As the board president told me to introduce myself, I heard, “runners set” in the back of my mind. She finished speaking, and Bang! The brief silence was the gunshot for me to begin. 

The next few minutes blurred together, but when the dust settled, I knew from the board members’ expressions and the audience’s thunderous approval that I had run quite a race. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough; the board voted down our proposal. I was disappointed, but proud of myself, my team, and our collaboration off the track. We stood up for a cause we believed in, and I overcame my worries about being a leader. Although I discovered that changing the status quo through an elected body can be a painstakingly difficult process and requires perseverance, I learned that I enjoy the challenges this effort offers. Last month, one of the school board members joked that I had become a “regular” – I now often show up to meetings to advocate for a variety of causes, including better environmental practices in cafeterias and safer equipment for athletes.

Just as Stark taught me, I worked passionately to achieve my goal. I may have been beaten when I appealed to the board, but I certainly didn’t lose, and that would have made Stark proud.

While the writer didn’t succeed in getting the track dedicated to Coach Stark, their essay is certainly successful in showing their willingness to push themselves and take initiative.

The essay opens with a quote from Coach Stark that later comes full circle at the end of the essay. We learn about Stark’s impact and the motivation for trying to get the track dedicated to him.

One of the biggest areas of improvement in the intro, however, is how the essay tells us Stark’s impact rather than showing us: His care, dedication, and emphasis on developing good character has left an enduring impact on me and hundreds of other students. Not only did he help me discover my talent and love for running, but he also taught me the importance of commitment and discipline and to approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running.

The writer could’ve helped us feel a stronger emotional connection to Stark if they had included examples of Stark’s qualities, rather than explicitly stating them. For example, they could’ve written something like: Stark was the kind of person who would give you gas money if you told him your parents couldn’t afford to pick you up from practice. And he actually did that—several times. At track meets, alumni regularly would come talk to him and tell him how he’d changed their lives. Before Stark, I was ambivalent about running and was on the JV team, but his encouragement motivated me to run longer and harder and eventually make varsity. Because of him, I approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running.

The essay goes on to explain how the writer overcame their apprehension of public speaking, and likens the process of submitting an appeal to the school board to running a race. This metaphor makes the writing more engaging and allows us to feel the student’s emotions.

While the student didn’t ultimately succeed in getting the track dedicated, we learn about their resilience and initiative: I now often show up to meetings to advocate for a variety of causes, including better environmental practices in cafeterias and safer equipment for athletes.

Overall, this essay is well-done. It demonstrates growth despite failing to meet a goal, which is a unique essay structure. The running metaphor and full-circle intro/ending also elevate the writing in this essay.

Where to Get Your Overcoming Challenges Essay Edited

The Overcoming Challenges essay is one of the trickier supplemental prompts, so it’s important to get feedback on your drafts. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

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