How can I overcome my fear of failure in a new job or project?

Not letting our fears paralyze us is key in any new job or venture, especially when there is the possibility of public criticism or humiliation. We have to weigh the psychic cost of not trying against the possibility of not succeeding and being embarrassed by our efforts. The former creates regret, the latter a few hours -- or maybe a few days -- of licking our wounds. If you want to succeed big, there is no substitute for simply sticking your neck out.

At any point, of course, we can get discouraged, feel rejected, and doubt ourselves. At such times, we just need to keep plugging on -- and often, in surprising ways, hurdles become steppingstones and our fears are dispersed. 

Find out more about this book: On Becoming Fearless...in Love, Work, and Life

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