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How To Overcome Fear of Failure - Best Ways to Reduce

How To Overcome Fear of Failure - Best Ways to Reduce

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Jul 03, 2023 03:07 PM IST

How To Overcome Fear Of Failure: Have you ever been so frightened of failing that you chose not to do something at all? Or has your fear of failure caused you to unintentionally weaken your own efforts in order to avoid a larger failure? Many of us have undoubtedly been in this situation at some point. The fear of failure can freeze us, causing us to do nothing, and hence prevent moving forward. When we let fear stop us from moving forward in life, we're more likely to miss out on some fantastic possibilities.

How To Overcome Fear of Failure - Best Ways to Reduce
How To Overcome Fear of Failure - Best Ways to Reduce

As per research, a traumatic experience in your past is one of the most common contributing factors to fear. For example, you delivered a significant speech in front of a large group some years ago and performed miserably. It's possible that the incident was so horrific that you developed a fear of failing in other areas, and you still have that fear years later. In this article, we'll look at the signs of fear of failure and some tips for overcoming the fear of failure in order to achieve great success at work and in life.

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How To Overcome Fear of Failure: Signs of Fear of Failure

Let us begin by understanding what could be some signs that you have a fear of failure.

  • Sense of pessimism regarding the future

  • Persistent worry about the outcome

  • Fears about what others would think of you if you perform poorly

  • Frequent procrastination

  • Easily distracted by minor or unnecessary things

  • Avoiding tasks or individuals connected to a project or a larger objective

  • Physical symptoms that prohibit you from achieving your goal (tiredness, headaches, digestive issues, joint or muscle discomfort)

After looking at some signs of fear of failure, let us now talk about some tips for overcoming the fear of failure.

Also Read | How To Overcome Procrastination

How To Overcome Fear Of Failure: Regulate Thoughts

Understanding and defining why you are frightened of failure, as well as how failing could genuinely harm you will help you confront your anxieties. This knowledge can also help you pinpoint how your fear of failure is influencing your actions and overcome the fear of failure.

Are you, for example, overworking or rushing just to escape the consequences you fear would occur if you fail? Or are you using self-protective practices like procrastination or avoidance to justify your failure? You can adjust your actions to increase the likelihood of success once you've discovered stressful or self-sabotaging behaviours.

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How To Overcome Fear Of Failure: Reconsider What Failure Means

Developing a new perspective on failure is a key aspect of how to overcome the fear of failure. Develop a new attitude towards failure instead of viewing it as an ultimate, life-ending calamity. Some things which can help you to change your perspective are-

  • Seeing criticism as an opportunity to learn and improve.

  • Failure should be seen as a lesson, since looking back on prior failures to see what you can learn from them can help you be more sensitive to failure as a teacher now.

  • See failure as a surmountable difficulty that serves as a springboard for progress rather than a roadblock in your way.

  • Failure should be considered as a temporary or transient circumstance, not the conclusion of your journey.

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How To Overcome Fear Of Failure: Manage Your Work

When responsibilities or goals become burdensome, the fear of failing can become overwhelming. Breaking down intimidating undertakings into tiny portions might give you a sense of control. It can also be beneficial to reflect on factors of success that are within your command so that you can make good decisions and take effective activities to position yourself for success.

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How To Overcome Fear Of Failure: Stay Focussed

When your mind is racing with negative self-talk about what has already happened or that may or may not happen tomorrow, it's tough to focus on what you're doing right now. Concentrating on the assigned task at any given moment allows you to stay on top of your present actions rather than obsessing about potential consequences and perceived flaws. Staying focused will help you to overcome the fear of failure.

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How To Overcome Fear Of Failure: Improve Your Self-Confidence

Change your beliefs about yourself as you create a new perspective on failure and its significance in your life. Overcoming your fear of failure requires increasing your confidence in yourself and your talents. Instead of dwelling on your perceived flaws, concentrate on the natural abilities and expertise you bring to your job or school.

Also Read | How To Build Confidence And Self-Esteem

How To Overcome Fear Of Failure: Change What Doesn't Work

Make a list of your regular work habits and task methods. Then, be realistic with yourself about what works for you and what stands in the way. Choose to perform more of what works and substitute different activities for what doesn't. This process of thinking and decision-making can make you feel in command of your responsibilities and yourself, which can be both inspiring and empowering.

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Fear of failure is something that everyone has had at some point in their lives, but it can become far more serious if it persists. Practice self-compassion and concentrate on strengthening your confidence and controlling your concerns in modest ways. The tips for overcoming the fear of failure mentioned above can help you with it.

Failure is an inevitable part of life, and it may be a valuable opportunity to learn and grow. Although it can be discouraging, it is critical to retain a positive attitude toward the potential rewards of failing once in a while. Remember that success is typically attained through a succession of failures that lead to the acquisition of new knowledge, skills, and methods.

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Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

1. Why is it important to overcome the fear of failure?

The fear of failure can freeze us, causing us to do nothing and hence prevent moving forward. When we let fear stop us from moving forward in life, we're more likely to miss out on some fantastic possibilities.

2. What causes fear of failure?

A traumatic experience in your past is one of the most common contributing factors to fear.

3. What is another name for fear of failure?

Atychiphobia

4. What are signs of fear of failure?

Some signs are-

  • Sense of pessimism regarding the future

  • Persistent worry about the outcome

  • Fears about what others would think of you if you perform poorly

  • Frequent procrastination 

  • Easily distracted by minor or unnecessary things

  • Avoiding tasks or individuals connected to a project or a larger objective

  • Physical symptoms that prohibit you from achieving your goal (tiredness, headaches, digestive issues, joint or muscle discomfort)

5. How can I change my mindset towards failure?

Some points which can help you to change your perspective are-

  • Seeing criticism is an opportunity to learn and improve.

  • Failure should be seen as a lesson, since looking back on prior failures to see what you can learn from them can help you be more sensitive to failure as a teacher now.

  • See failure as a surmountable difficulty that serves as a springboard for progress rather than a roadblock in your way.

  • Failure should be considered as a temporary or transient circumstance, not the conclusion of your journey.

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