FEAR THESAURUS

DEATH



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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:
Most people have a fear of death—it's part of being human. Often it hits in the moment, like after a near-miss traffic event or on discovery that a loved one needs surgery for an illness. However, it can also linger in the background, particularly around significant birthday milestones or when we're sleepless and pondering life's big questions. This fear can begin to shape a character's life in negative ways when it holds on or may become a phobia if the fear causes panic and anxiety when no logical threat is present. 

WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE:
Following safe practices (wearing a seatbelt, locking doors, paying attention to expiry dates, washing hands)
Researching safety ratings before making purchases
Focusing on staying youthful (skincare routines, healthy eating, and exercise)
Avoiding news articles and programs that mention death
Worrying about loved ones and needing them to check in more frequently 
Overthinking things when it comes to what could go wrong
Struggling with decisions that carry risk (going in for a surgery, flying, becoming a passenger in another's car)
Opting for quieter yet longer drives than the freeway
Avoiding those who are sick or dying
Paying more attention to their surroundings, especially in new environments
Pausing to assess risks over spontaneity
Shying away from potentially dangerous or thrill-seeking situations (skydiving, storm chasing, running at night, etc.)
Avoiding cemeteries, funeral homes, and other places associated with death
Not celebrating Halloween, the Day of the Dead, and other holidays related to death
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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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