Conquering The Fear of Failure
The fear of failure is not innate, we can overcome it. New beginnings are scaring because of two particular reasons. One is the uncertainties that come with new beginnings and two is the fear of failure. More often than not we are scared and afraid of certain new things because of fear of failure.
Causes of Fear of failure
Natural reaction. As we have said, new beginnings come with the fear of failure thus it is beyond our control.
Past traumatic event.When your self-perception depends on how other people think.Genetic and biological issues. When a parent or other close relative has a phobia, the child will be much more likely to have the same anxiety.
Failure can escalate into a phobia called atychiphobia. The fear of failure can be mental and it can be characterized by certain things such as procrastination, being extremely worried, and physical.
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The fear of failure comes about when our subconscious mind isn’t in sync with our conscious mind. For instance, On one hand, you have your conscious mind which is ready to start a new business but on the other hand, your subconscious mind is vested by the fear of failure. When your conscious mind is ready to move forward and develop life, achieve and win things, your subconscious mind holds you back because of the fear of failure.
How to overcome the fear of failure.
Face your fears
Regardless of what your weaknesses are, you need to face them and work on them. When you face your fears, you start to improve how you deal with them. You might fear change in your life, and that is one of the things holding you back from success. If you are doing things the way you’ve always done them, the results are always going to be the same. If you want different and better results, you need to make changes to your approach. The more you face your fears and the more you do what you don’t want to do, the more comfortable you get with the things you fear.
Redefine what failure actually is
Developing a new perspective on the concept of failure is an important part of overcoming the fear of failure. Develop a new relationship with failure instead of viewing it as an absolute, life-destroying disaster. Change your perspective so that you see failure as an opportunity to learn and grow.
Think more positively
This is not as simple as it sounds; positive thinking entails altering your mindset, thought process, and outlook on the future. Fear of failure is often so strong because we focus on the negative outcomes and the obstacles to success. However, this is not the only outcome. Consider the positive outcomes, how you can overcome obstacles, and visualize a path to the goal. Let go of negative assumptions because they heighten the fear of failing.
Setting Goals
Setting a long-term goal can be both inspiring and motivating. Begin with whatever your first small goals are. When you succeed, even in the smallest of ways, your confidence will begin to return. With small victories and progress toward larger goals, you can boost your self-esteem and self-worth.
ALSO READ: 6 benefits of positive thinking
Have a plan B
Hope for the best and prepare for the worst. Having a backup plan gives you more confidence to move ahead and take a calculated risk. It will reduce the negative emotions that you expect to feel if you fail to achieve your dream goal.
Stay Focused
Finally, when your mind is saturated with negative self-talk about what has already happened or what might or might not happen in the future, it’s difficult to focus on what you’re doing right now, in the present moment. Focusing on the task at hand at any given time allows you to stay on top of your current actions rather than ruminating on imagined consequences and perceived shortcomings.
I hope these tips and techniques help you overcome your fear of failure and motivate you to keep going. The only way to achieve your goals is to get out of your comfort zone, challenge yourself, and take risks. Life is frightening, but living the life you’ve always desired is worth the risk. You have the ability to do anything and succeed in ways you previously doubted.
