Downstream vs. Against the Grain

Abraham-Hicks recommendation to “go downstream.” This group consciousness from the non-physical dimension expressed their amusement that humans seem so intent on fighting the current of life.  “Nothing you want is upstream,” they communicate.
But there’s another popular maxim that seems to contradict the downstream approach.  Maybe you’re familiar with the Nickelback song, “If Today Was Your Last Day.”

Against the grain should be a way of life
What’s worth the prize is always worth the fight
Every second counts ’cause there’s no second try
So live like you’ll never live it twice
Don’t take the free ride in your own life

If you pay close attention to the other lyrics, it seems to be advising, ‘Life is too short to let your fears get the best of you.  Go for it!’ And, while that certainly seems like common sense, you can’t escape the underlying message:  ‘Go against the grain!  Take the path less traveled!  If you want life’s prize, you need to fight for it!’
Let’s put a finer point on this apparent opposition by looking at an actual situation involving two good friends of mine.  One is strongly encouraging the other to overcome her fears of public speaking and begin making group presentations.  She seems torn between the satisfaction that may come from rising to this challenge–and the considerable dread she feels for actually doing it.
Isn’t it true that many people have found incredible success by overcoming their fears?  Isn’t it true that many are deeply grateful they were able to conquer them?  Isn’t it also true that taking fears head-on is also perfectly contrary to Abraham’s advice?  Isn’t it strenuously paddling upstream instead of pulling those oars in and drifting with the current?
I’d love to get your thoughts on this one.  Are these two schools of thought able to coexist peacefully–or are they impossibly contradicting one another?