I used to be really afraid of a lot of things.
Then I logically determined that in order to maximize my chances of a happy life(not a long one, I prioritize quality over quantity) it would be best for me to take danger into account to a lesser extent.
Since then I've taken more risks.
I notice that when there is a change in my behavior or personality I almost always notice the exact thoughts I had at the time the change started happening and can relate them to it. The same for learning new things. I notice the thoughts that preceded it and the outside change happens in a burst that surprises everyone around me.