Moving Forward
As we enter August, I am reminded of how quickly seasons, time, and life moves. Changes and transitions seem to always be right around the corner and as Psych Perspectives excitedly enters its second month, I have been thinking often about how myself and so many others respond to change. Whether it's starting a new job, moving to a new community, pursuing a relationship, or becoming more socially connected, growth often requires us to step into unfamiliar territory. While these transitions can be exciting, they can also bring uncertainty, self-doubt, and the fear of failure.
Fear of failure is a common experience that affects people across all stages of life. It often presents as procrastination, indecisiveness, and avoidance or distraction. These behaviors often stem from the fear of making the wrong choice or experiencing an unsuccessful outcome. Many individuals unknowingly subscribe to the idea of “I have to find the right path for me” rather than “the wrong path is better than no path”.
Why is the wrong path better than no path?
Because any experience gives you valuable information. You learn what works and what does not. You gain experience, develop coping skills, clarify your preferences, and often discover strengths or weaknesses you were not aware of. Many people report that some of their most important insights came from opportunities that did not work out as planned. The experience itself helped refine their understanding of what they truly wanted.When individuals repeatedly face uncertainty and discover that they can adapt, recover, and learn from setbacks, their belief in their ability to handle challenges—increases. The goal is not to make perfect decisions; it is to trust that you can respond effectively, regardless of the outcome.
In sessions, I often discuss what I refer to as the "70/30 rule." Rather than waiting until you feel 100% ready, the goal is to move forward when you have reached approximately 70% readiness. The reality is that most decisions do not come with complete certainty, and many people never feel entirely prepared. The remaining 30% often requires a leap of faith—a willingness to trust yourself, tolerate uncertainty, and learn as you go. While this can feel uncomfortable, it is often where growth and meaningful change occur.
