Dismissing people’s fear will just let them hold on to it tighter. So don’t discuss whether their fear is substantial.
Often, what works is to put in place an ‘alarm-system’. Ask the objector “I want to be sure that we notice when this happens. How would we notice as early as possible?” Then define a measurable that the circle can track (e.g. revenue going down more than 7% or fewer new members within 6 months, or a survey of member satisfaction after 3 months). Keep it simple enough. That way, you create a win-win situation: even if the fear never comes true, you were able to move forward with peace of mind. And the objector – and every other circle member – is assured that their concerns are taken seriously.
For more information, check out our handbook Many Voices One Song sections 3.2.4 and 3.2.5