How Do I Overcome My Fear of Making Mistakes?

Source http://www.sonima.com/meditation/mindful-living/fear-of-making-mistakes/

Dear John,

What can I do to overcome my timidness and fear of making mistakes?

Sincerely, Jaylin

 

Dear Jaylin,

“Experience is the name everyone gives to their mistakes.” – Oscar Wilde

Thank you for your inquiry! Your question is an incredibly relevant concern for many. Whether it’s making a mistake at work or wanting to overcome shyness and be bolder socially, this is a growing worry for most. The first thought I had when I sat with your question was that it’s OK to make mistakes. Human beings have a long history of questionable decision making, so you are not alone.

I think many have been taught through cultural conditioning that we ought to be perfect without exception. This expectation is not realistic. Further, I believe that anyone, who is humble and honest, would be very hard pressed to reflect back on their life and not uncover at least one error or lapse in good judgment, and that includes mistakes big and small. I also believe that when mistakes happen, that is the moment to practice mindfulness, self-kindness, compassion, and self-forgiveness.

In bouncing back from mistakes, it’s important to remember to not skip over the hard psychological work of making contact with the painful emotions that can come with mistakes. I know from my own errors that shame, embarrassment, awkwardness, and …

Source http://www.sonima.com/meditation/mindful-living/fear-of-making-mistakes/

Dear John,

What can I do to overcome my timidness and fear of making mistakes?

Sincerely, Jaylin

 

Dear Jaylin,

“Experience is the name everyone gives to their mistakes.” – Oscar Wilde

Thank you for your inquiry! Your question is an incredibly relevant concern for many. Whether it’s making a mistake at work or wanting to overcome shyness and be bolder socially, this is a growing worry for most. The first thought I had when I sat with your question was that it’s OK to make mistakes. Human beings have a long history of questionable decision making, so you are not alone.

I think many have been taught through cultural conditioning that we ought to be perfect without exception. This expectation is not realistic. Further, I believe that anyone, who is humble and honest, would be very hard pressed to reflect back on their life and not uncover at least one error or lapse in good judgment, and that includes mistakes big and small. I also believe that when mistakes happen, that is the moment to practice mindfulness, self-kindness, compassion, and self-forgiveness.

In bouncing back from mistakes, it’s important to remember to not skip over the hard psychological work of making contact with the painful emotions that can come with mistakes. I know from my own errors that shame, embarrassment, awkwardness, and …

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