According to John Maxwell’s book Failing Forward, fear of failure stops the momentum of forward progress. The inaction that results when people are stuck in the fear cycle prevents them from moving forward in life. The fear takes many forms and he discussed three he most commonly observed:
- Paralysis – occurs when people absolutely stop trying anything that can result in failure.
- Procrastination – in this category people maintain the hope of progress but never follow through. Being stuck in this cycle has even been equated with the natural assassination of opportunity.
- Purposelessness – people lose sight and sense of purpose if they are trying to avoid making a mistake. Even worse, the compounded inactivity manifests in additional negative self effects:
- Self-pity – when one feels sorry for themselves, and is taking less responsibility for their inactivity and starts seeing themselves as a victim.
- Excuses – a person who makes a mistake and offers excuses instead of owning their mistakes; thus making another mistake.
- Misused energy – the person loses focus due to constant fear of failure and goes into many directions all at once and not making progress with anyone of them
- Hopelessness – continual fear and inaction can rob a person of hope.
It is important to know that failure is a part of progress. Action reduces the fear – be afraid but take action anyway!! That is the only way!
If you are afraid to make your next move in your relationship, your job, your community, please reach out and I will guide and teach you how to overcome the fear and use the experience as a stepping stone for a successful outcome!