1. Don’t focus on what you don’t want to happen.

I am sure you can find endless reasons you shouldn’t do something. That negative voice inside your head is the mastermind behind your fear of failure. So silence it by finding the reasons you should do something. Focus on achieving a positive outcome and do your best to make it happen. Also, keep in mind that some of the most successful people in the world failed multiple times before they found success. Why would you be any different? The key to succeeding is perseverance. You fall, you get up and you try again.

2. Don’t expect a smooth road to success.

Even if you reach your peak in life, you won’t remain there forever. It’s an up and down thing. Nobody stays at their peak forever, because life is made of highs and lows. Without one, we wouldn’t know the other. Instead of obsessing over how to prevent those lows, be aware that it’s a natural life cycle. Strive for the best outcome, but handle failure with grace and an open mind. Your energy and time are never wasted when you attempt to achieve a goal. Life is a never ending learning journey, and failure is part of its lessons.

3. Take a healthy dose of mindfulness.

Mindfulness is an indispensable tool when dealing with fear of failure. It allows you to pay attention in the present moment, nonjudgmentally. And it helps you focus on creating something you’re proud of without expecting approval, or admiration. So when you catch yourself fearing failure, find an inner source of calm. Activities like listening to music, going for a walk, or playing with a pet are great sources to tap into when you’re feeling anxious or fearful.

Treat fear of failure as a naturally occuring feeling, but don’t allow it to stand in the way of pursuing dreams. Remember, even if you are gifted, talented, or extremely knowledgeable in your field, there will always be someone who won’t like your work, or who will disagree with your opinion. The constant need for approval and appreciation fuels fear of failure so don’t expect either. Instead, allow curiosity and interest in the end result to lead the way. They will keep you motivated as you go through the process of reaching your target destination.

Finally, self-acceptance and self-awareness must be at the base of everything you do. Be aware of your potential because you can only be as great as you allow yourself to be. And instill passion in your goals since passion is what will keep you going when you feel like giving up. Now, proceed!

For a great source of inspiration on resilience read my favorite book of all time Unbroken, by Laura Hillenbrand

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