Table of Contents
The Concept of Fear of Failure
The fear of failure is not a phobia rather it is a type of anxiety. It is a subjective phenomenon. In a true sense if we speak of failure. It is not the failure that fears the college students rather the consequences of failure that frighten the students. Some of these consequences are as follows:
Personal Consequences: Students feel ashamed of their incompetence and shortcomings. They consider themselves guilty and worthless.
Interpersonal Consequences: Parental disappointment, classmates’ behaviour and teacher’s behaviour and their lack of support
Influence on Career: Failure also influences our career. It reduces the chances of better jobs which affects the social status.
These are some important consequences that arise fear in the students after failure. However, it is not very difficult to overcome this fear. Some of the important tactics to overcome the fear of failure are as follows:
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Clarify the Stereotypes about Failure
Try to read the stories of successful people. Every successful person has achieved their goal after facing a lot of failures. Their failures were not mightier than their struggle. Their efforts after many attempts of failure have made them successful. Students should be encouraged to read their stories. It would help them to reduce the fear of failure.
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Appreciate the Effort
If students face certain failures they should appreciate their efforts rather than blaming themselves for their failures. They should change their goals. They should focus on how to improve their performance. For example, if a student fails in the exams instead of getting disappointed they should focus attention on what they have achieved; such as how much knowledge has been achieved. Motivation will boost their energy and they will regain their strengths.
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Visualizing different Situations
Try to find out your weaknesses. Compare it to the weaknesses and shortcomings of your parents and teachers. Also, try to evaluate how they overcome such a situation. Create a positive atmosphere for yourself. Relate their experiences with your life. It is very important to understand your fear. It should be faced and reduced rather than neglected. Think of what lies behind the failure.
Another noticeable thing is training. One should be properly trained. Also, The training must deal with the causes of failure and its consequences. It would help you in visualizing a situation that would
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Self-Motivation
Self-motivation is very important. The most important step of self-motivation is to unveil your own strengths and weaknesses. There is always a situation that frightens students of failure. In order to overcome failure, find out that situation and separate it from your failure.
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Self-Evaluation
Evaluate yourself by asking these three questions:
- What is your learning outcome of that particular situation?
- How can that particular experience influence your personality?
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What are the productive aspects of that particular situation? Find out at least three aspects.
Your mind may not support you in answering these questions on the first attempt. That is why ask at least three times. Your answers will overcome your fear.
