Creating compelling characters is an essential part of storytelling. Without characters that readers can connect with and root for, stories can be dull and uninteresting. To make strong characters, it helps to understand their deepest fears. This article lists 50 common fears that can be used to add depth and complexity to your characters. From the fear of failure and humiliation to the fear of spiders and the dark, this list has something for characters of all backgrounds. Dive in and find the perfect fear to bring your character to life!
Abandonment
Aliens
Bacteria
Bats
Being Buried Alive
Being Forgotten
Being Touched
Being Watched
Betrayal
Birds
Blood
Bridges
Change
Commitment
Confined Spaces
Crowds
Death
Dentists
Dogs
Dolls
Drowning
Failure
Fire
Flying
Germs
Ghosts
Growing Up
Heartbreak
Heights
Hospitals
Hurricanes
Inadequacy
Intimacy
Judgement
Losing a Job
Making a Mistake
Needles
Public Speaking
Regret
Rejection
Rodents
Sharks
Snakes
Spiders
Strangers
Success
Suffocation
The Dark
Vomit
War
It is critical to remember that fear is an essential part of any character's journey. It can be the driving force behind their decisions and actions and can provide a compelling source of motivation and conflict. By embracing your characters' fears and using them to propel your story forward, you can ensure a captivating and engaging story!