FEAR THESAURUS

BEING DISAPPOINTED



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HELPFUL TIP:

A deeply embedded fear often stems from trauma, so it can be helpful to explore emotional wounds that may be a factor. Your character might also become risk-averse, which can create problems in their relationships and limit their fulfillment. And for a character to achieve their story goal, they must overcome any fear-based thinking that's holding them back. The Character Builder is a great resource for pulling all these factors together.
NOTES:
People tend to hope for the best in their relationships, work, and personal pursuits, and when those expectations aren't met, the letdown can be difficult to process. This disappointment can be so uncomfortable that a character may avoid situations where it could arise and adapt their mindset to expect less, reducing its likelihood.

WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE:
Underachieving; avoiding high-risk situations
Sticking to a routine and preferring structure over the unknown
The character reminding people repeatedly of their expectations
Choosing what's known over what's new (eating at the same restaurants, shopping at the same stores, etc.)
Avoiding situations that trigger excitement, anticipation, optimism, or hopefulness
Providing opportunities for people to back out of commitments 
Avoiding competitions and contests
Analyzing online reviews before committing to a purchase
Keeping their expectations low
Gravitating toward situations they can control
Micromanaging others
Expecting a new romantic relationship to go nowhere
Not setting goals 
Labeling people by their most prominent weaknesses
Expecting loved ones to not follow through on commitments
Frequently complaining
Not liking surprises or spontaneity
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COMMON INTERNAL STRUGGLES:
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FLAWS THAT MAY EMERGE:
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HINDRANCES AND DISRUPTIONS TO THE CHARACTER'S LIFE:
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EMOTIONAL WOUNDS IT COULD STEM FROM:
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SCENARIOS THAT MIGHT AWAKEN THIS FEAR :
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HUMAN NEEDS THAT COULD BE IMPACTED:
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GOALS MADE DIFFICULT BY THIS FEAR:
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CONFLICT SCENARIOS THAT OFFER GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES:
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HOW THE CHARACTER CAN MINIMIZE OR OVERCOME IT:
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