Fear of failure takes many forms, but it usually comes down to one thing: not trying. How does fear of failure manifest itself? Procrastination: We put off doing things in order to avoid the imagined pain of doing them. Our subconscious does not like vulnerability.In the past, fear served humans well. Fear kept us safe from predators, the elements, and other humans. When venturing out into new lands, we had to be especially careful. Tigers and hostile tribes lurked in the bushes, waiting until the prime moment to pounce. By creating scenarios and imagining these threats, the brain made us keep our guard up; it’s easier to fight when your weapon is at the ready.
Now, at least in the developed world, we have little to fear from predators and enemies, but the brain continues to conjure threats and dangers. We are adaptive, though. Even in progress nature brings us toward balance. Culture has created a traditions for us which encourage us to conquer our fears. Playing life safe isn't the key to happiness. Fear of failure is worse then failure itself.
This is the time of year to put away those fears and really challenge yourself. Make some new years resolutions. Take a long honest look at the procrastination which has been playing itself out in your life. Make a plan to conquer your fear and challenge yourself to move beyond your current limits.
History is filled with people who ‘failed.’ You’ve probably heard these stories a million times, but just in case…
-Michael Jordan failed when he tried out for his high school basketball team.
-Thomas Edison failed 10,000 times before invented the light bulb.
-Robert Pirsig failed 121 times to find a publisher for Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance.
As for happiness... Take a look back and have a little nostalgia at the end of the year. Allow yourself to fall deeper for the things you love and the people you love. When you're less fearful, you're more open to deep love and the vulnerability needed for it.
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