6 ways to conquer the fear of failure

New beginnings can be so scary, mainly because of the uncertainties it comes with and mostly the fear of failure. However, we are here to tell you there is absolutely nothing wrong with failure. It is part of life and so it shouldn’t get the better of you.

Apply for that internship that you’ve always eyed, by all means, go ahead and ask them out if you love their vibe. Just do it! What’s the worst that could happen? Nothing. In fact, you will have learned an experience or two. Here are tips to help you get over 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. 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

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

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.

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.

Stay Focused

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.

This article first appeared on Parents Africa.