How to Use Fear as a Superpower | Chris Bertish

How Fear Can Be Your Greatest Superpower

The Mindset of a Big Wave Champion

Chris Bertish isn't your average surfer. As a:
- Mavericks Big Wave International champion
- Guinness World Record holder
- Professional motivational speaker

He's mastered what most people avoid: harnessing fear as fuel for peak performance.

What Fear Really Does to Your Body

Bertish explains fear triggers powerful physiological changes:

1. Endorphin release - Natural pain relief
2. Adrenaline surge - Energy boost
3. Increased oxygen flow - Enhanced physical capacity
4. Faster mental processing - Improved decision-making

"Your body becomes three times stronger than normal," Bertish notes. "It's nature's performance enhancer."

3 Steps to Transform Fear into Fuel

1. Reframe Your Perspective

Instead of seeing fear as negative, recognize it as:
- Your body's preparation system
- A sign you're pushing boundaries
- An opportunity for growth

2. Physical Preparation Matters

Bertish emphasizes:
- Consistent training builds confidence
- Skill development creates mental resilience
- Preparation reduces unknown variables

3. Make Fear Your Ally

"When fear hits," Bertish advises, "ask:
- What is my body trying to tell me?
- How can I use this energy?
- What's the smartest next move?"

Real-World Applications Beyond Surfing

These fear-management techniques help in:

• Public speaking - Channel nervous energy into passion
• Career challenges - Use stress as focus fuel
• Personal goals - Break through mental barriers

Bertish's Next Impossible Challenge

True to form, Bertish is preparing to:
- Paddle across the Atlantic Ocean
- Use a custom stand-up paddleboard
- Apply his fear-management system

His motto says it all: Dream it. See it. Believe it. Achieve it.

Key Takeaways

• Fear is biological performance enhancement
• Preparation creates confidence
• Mindset determines outcomes
• Extraordinary results require embracing discomfort