How to Overcome Fear of Failure (Les Brown)

Have you ever been so afraid of failing at something that you decided not to try it at all? Or has a fear of failure meant that, subconsciously, you undermined your own efforts to avoid the possibility of a larger failure?
Many of us have probably experienced this at one time or another. The fear of failing can be immobilizing - it can cause us to do nothing, and therefore resist moving forward.
But when we allow fear to stop our forward progress in life, we're likely to miss some great opportunities along the way.
Most of us will stumble and fall in life. Doors will get slammed in our faces, and we might make some bad decisions.
But imagine if Michael Jordan had given up on his dream to play basketball when he was cut from that team.
Imagine if Richard Branson had listened to the people who told him he'd never do anything worthwhile without a high-school diploma.
Think of the opportunities you'll miss if you let your failures stop you.
Failure can also teach us things about ourselves that we would never have learned otherwise. For instance, failure can help you discover how strong a person you are.
Failing at something can help you discover your truest friends, or help you find unexpected motivation to succeed.
Often, valuable insights come only after a failure. Accepting and learning from those insights is key to succeeding in life.