But the opposite is true. When a person senses loneliness, unhappiness, or artificialness of guests at social gatherings, that person is often projecting his or her own feelings of loneliness, unhappiness, or artificialness onto other people who may not be that way at all. Feelings of social incompetence seldom are caused by external events. Generally, such feelings are caused by erroneous, negative views about one's self. When a person becomes aware of those erroneous views, the feelings of social incompetence usually diminish and often vanish.
Irrational fear is destructive whenever it prevents a person from taking positive or needed action.
Objective fear is a valuable protection mechanism. Fortunately, the paralyzing effects of irrational fear can be overcome with direct, conscious effort. Irrational fears can cause inaction that prevents deserving, productive people from developing prosperity, happiness, and love. A fearlessness to live is one of the most financially and emotionally rewarding character traits that an honest, productive person can develop. But that does not preclude certainty over issues and judgements.