There are lots of things I fear in life – and not just a savage strike coming my way at 100 mph. Of course I fear the same things everyone else does – a life-altering diagnosis, the drunk driver crossing into my lane, the phone call telling me someone I really care about has died. 

But it is true that when it comes to the octagon, fear is part of the process. Failure to manage this powerful emotion gives your opponent a huge advantage just for showing up. 

Just before my fight career had started, I was in an amatuer boxing contest in Cincinnati. My opponent had nearly a 40 pound weight advantage and was 3 inches taller than me. I was nervous and the crowd seemed to anticipate my doom. 

In the end, the referee stopped the fight in the 3rd round, and raised my hand in victory. This experience helped teach me to keep my fear in check and make it work for me as an energizing force. 

Being brave isn’t about not being scared. It’s about doing your best in spite of it.