“In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.” - Albert Einstein

Tuesday, December 4, 2007

Fear of Success

Elan's blog: Point of vulnerability

In high school I defended the next to the last position on the tennis team. You had to win to move up, and I would usually play to a deuce and then lose the game.
I've recently seen how this pattern has played out in other areas through my life. I like to start things, but I have difficulty finishing. I used to think this tendency was because I like the process more than the completion of it. But I now realize it is the fear of success.
I've listened to a lot of speakers talk about motivation and goal setting. A few have talked about the power of the sub-conscious. The sub-conscious mind believes whatever it is told, and it is much more powerful than the conscious mind. If the sub-conscious believes that winning isn't a good thing, it will find a way to prevent it.
I'm just beginning to understand that I've been afraid of success and being a winner. I appreciate Elan's comments on pressing through to victory and success. We can all use this kind of encouragement.

2 comments:

Florence and Gary Deeter said...

Eric,
I can relate to your statements about finishing projects. Some time ago I came to the realization that I start projects and find reasons not to finish them. For me, it is the feeling I won't be able to make it as perfectly as I think it should be. Fear of success or fear of failure, whichever, I am making an effort to be more consistient in following through on current projects!

Florence and Gary Deeter said...

Perhaps I should have identified myself in the previous comment--Mom, speaking. And I am so proud of you and the insights you have gained.
Love You.
Mom