Fear Factors

Throughout Poler’s journey, she explored her fears in a way that inspired others to reexamine theirs. In her own life, Poler’s parents served as role models for facing fears. Raised in Caracus, Venezuela, she was born into a family of Holocaust survivors. She was used to living with fear. Still, when she decided to move to New York City to pursue a masters degree she knew it would be impossible to succeed in an environment of fear.

As the “Hello Fears” movement went viral and spread across the globe, Poler received thousands of messages and emails from people who were inspired by her, including some Hollywood A-listers like Ashton Kutcher and Sofía Vergara, and the rap artist Lil Wayne. During Poler's time spent at Foxcroft last Friday, students had the opportunity to hear firsthand how she transformed her life by facing her deepest fears. “I am definitely going to try things that that are beyond my comfort zone,” said Chloe M. ’21.

Poler told the audience of mostly teen girls, “Phobophobia is the fear of fear itself.” She challenged them to think about the things that keep them from pursuing their dreams. Story after story, she connected with the students and encouraged each of us to look within for inspiration. For Savannah A. ‘19, listening to Poler describe her fears inspired her to think about her own experiences in a different way. “I really enjoyed how she used the videos she made and how relatable she was. I realized that some of my fears have been simple, small things, like trying new food,” she said.

As Poler led the audience through an array of thoughts and actions from her 100-day challenge, she shared a quote from Abraham Maslow: “Step forward into growth or step backward into comfort.” Of all the fears that occupied her life for 100 days, Poler says there is one that ranks above them all: the decision not to return to her job as art director after earning her masters degree, but instead to pursue her passion as an inspirational speaker. To that, we say mission accomplished.

“My hope is that girls begin to see that stepping outside their comfort zone, facing a fear, or taking a risk is a growth opportunity — not a limitation — it is about cultivating curiosity,” said Assistant Head of School for Student Life Emily Johns. “It is about living fully and joyfully; it is about connecting with the world — people, places and experiences in a profound and exciting way.”

As she concluded her remarks Friday, Poler returned to the high-energy music that she played at the beginning of her talk and asked everyone to get on their feet and “dance like no one is watching.” We did, and it felt good!