Srinagar, Feb. 21 -- There is a peculiar anxiety that defines our times. It is not always visible, not always dramatic, yet it quietly governs decisions, ambitions and even identities. We hesitate before speaking, pause before attempting, and withdraw before risking. Students fear examinations long before question papers are set. Young professionals fear inadequacy before their first evaluation. Writers fear rejection before a manuscript leaves their desk. In public life, individuals fear criticism before expressing conviction. We are not merely reacting to fear; we are anticipating it.

But anticipation need not always weaken us. In fact, when properly directed, it can become a source of strength. Long before modern psychology began diss...