Many people are so scared to fail that they don’t even start. If you wait until everything is perfect before acting, then you will never succeed at anything. It may seem prudent to keep your confidence level high by giving up after your first attempt ends in failure. But, your chances of success aren’t much higher if you give up after one try.

Fear of failure is irrational. This fear which can hold you back from success is based on two common misconceptions people have about failure. First, many people believe they don’t want to fail, and second, they think they can avoid failure altogether. The first misconception assumes that failing is a bad thing and should therefore be avoided at all costs. The second misconception simply reinforces the first by forcing yourself to play it safe.

This, in itself, is the worst kind of failure: failing to do anything worthwhile because you end up fearing opportunities instead of embracing them.

Fear affects everyone, regardless of where they’re at in life. It’s natural to live in a constant state of worrying about what could happen. This mindset can have a devastating effect on us both mentally and physically. What you should do instead is enjoy life as it comes and act when opportunities arise. Overcoming fear of failure all starts with letting go, then moving forward with your goals despite any obstacles that arise.

~ Amelia Desertsong