Facing the Fear of Failure
After graduating high school in 2017, I enrolled in college and had a great experience during my first semester. However, after my second semester, I struggled and ended up failing two classes—mathematics, which I’ve always found challenging, and English, due to not properly citing my sources in my final project. I had also depleted most of my college savings, which meant I would need to take out loans—a prospect my parents strongly discouraged.
Convinced that college wasn’t the right path for me, I decided to drop out and focus on working full-time. Since then, I’ve been traveling and trying out different jobs. Recently, I found a position at one of the largest commercial insurance companies and was given the opportunity to enroll in a local college with my first two semesters completely funded.
However, a fear I never recognized before is now hitting me hard: the fear of failing again. Given that I’m enrolled in an accelerated course where each class lasts just a month and is self-paced, I worry about falling behind if I struggle with a topic or miss a homework deadline. This opportunity feels like a second chance, and I don’t want to waste it.
Has anyone else experienced similar feelings? I’d appreciate any advice on how to overcome this anxiety.
It’s completely normal to feel scared about failing, especially after your previous experiences. A lot of people share those feelings when returning to school, especially in such an intense program. Here are a few tips that might help you cope with these fears:
Change Your Mindset: Instead of viewing failure as something negative, try to see it as a part of the learning process. Every successful person has faced setbacks; what sets them apart is their resilience. Remember that making mistakes is a natural part of education.
Set Realistic Goals: Instead of aiming for perfection, set manageable goals for yourself. Focus on doing your best rather than stressing about being the best. Celebrate the small wins, like completing assignments on time or understanding a tough concept.
Create a Routine: Since you’re in a rush course, establishing a solid study routine can help. Dedicate specific times each day for studying, and stick to a schedule. This can help you stay organized and reduce anxiety about keeping up.
Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to professors or peers if you’re struggling with a topic. Most educators are willing to help students who actively seek assistance, and forming study groups can also provide a support system.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself; acknowledge that you’re trying something challenging and that it’s perfectly okay to not get everything right on the first try. You’re already proving your strength by stepping back into an academic environment.
Mindfulness and Stress Management: Incorporate mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, to help calm your mind. Taking short breaks to relax can improve your focus and productivity.
Reflect on Your Progress: Keep a journal of your experiences, challenges, and accomplishments. Reflecting on how far you’ve come can boost your confidence and provide perspective when you feel overwhelmed.
Remember, it’s completely okay to feel scared, but this is also an opportunity for growth. You’ve already shown resilience by returning to school—believe in yourself and your ability to succeed! You got this!