I was reading The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by leadership expert John Maxwell. While describing factors that keep us from growing, he referenced an article he encountered listing five fears that prevent people from becoming successful.
- Fear of Failure
- Fear of Trading Security for the Unknown
- Fear of Being Overextended Financially
- Fear of What Others Will Say or Think
- Fear that Success Will Alienate Peers
Ouch! As I read this list and paused to reflect on my dreams each of these resonated with me. I don’t know where you are in your growth journey. I hope you are on the road as I am. I am going to suggest one practice for each of these fears and how we can fight against it.
Fear of Failure
Remember that failure is never final and more importantly neither success nor failure define who we are. If either of them defines us, we are on a slippery slope to a life with little peace. Allow 24 hours to celebrate a success or learn from a failure then keep growing.
Fear of Trading Security for the Unknown
This fear is rooted in the lie that I have everything under control. Since I have a wife and three boys, I continue to understand that nothing is certain and life continually brings unknowns. I choose to believe someone greater than me is in control which provides courage as I step into the unknown.
Fear of Being Overextended Financially
When I think about this fear I immediately recognize although I have been overextended financially since we have had children, everything continues to work out. Seeking wise counsel, living by a budget, working diligently, and not expecting to “get rich quick” are practices that help me when thinking about the financial portion of pursuing my dream.
Fear of What Others Will Say or Think
When I lose perspective on my purpose this becomes more of a concern. On the other hand, when I am sure of what I am pursuing and that it aligns with my purpose in life others opinions matter less. There will always be a critic and I need to be diligent in surrounding myself with those who are both cheerleaders for the cause and also willing to speak truth when I need to hear it.
Fear that Success Will Alienate Peers
Jealousy is at the root of any alienation we feel from peers. As others see you pursuing your dream, their jealousy of you taking that risk can create a relational gap. Have someone in your inner circle who will be a cheerleader and encourager for you in your journey. Maybe that is a spouse, good friend, relative, mentor, or a coach. The alienation may come, but seek out those who will encourage you on this journey.
Five fears, five suggestions. What fear(s) do you struggle with the most? What practice do you need to implement to help you daily press on and fight through to achieve your dream? Increase your faith and the fear will diminish. You have what it takes to accomplish your vision. Take it one step at a time. Want to gather a group of people for me to help you grow utilizing this resource? Contact me and we can discuss how I can come alongside you and others to help you grow as a leader to your full potential. Lead Well.
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