by Michael Riggs
“I mean, come on, get real. Afraid of success? That’s ridiculous. Why do you think I practice, and sacrifice, and train, and compete, anyway? To succeed!! I’ve always sought success. That is what drives me. Plus, look at all of my accomplishments… those certainly aren’t the result of a fear of success. Are they?”
It certainly seems like a strange concept, at first take, but maybe, just maybe there is something to the possibility of being afraid to succeed. For example, success brings on heightened expectations. After all, the spotlight isn’t shining on those “in the middle of the pack” Or, consider the possibility that deep down you aren’t sure if you have the resources to commit to all that it would take to succeed. Or, have you reconciled that being successful might cause you to act in ways that you aren’t comfortable or familiar.
Let’s take a little quiz. Answer the following questions “Yes,” “No,” or “”Maybe.”
— Are you unable to make a total commitment to being the best player you can be?
— Do you have a pattern of injury or illness before a big round?
— Does your training vary in quality and intensity?
— Do you stay within tour “comfort zone” in practice and competition?
— Do you avoid things that will make you improve? For example, purchasing better equipment, or investing in a better diet.
— Do you trade what you want the most (goals) for what you want right now (relief)?
— Do you rationalize why it is O.K. to fall short of your goals?
If you answered “yes” to three or more of these questions you may have a significant fear of success. But, what can you do about it? Here are some helpful steps…
Tip # 1 Look inside and choose to change. Take a long hard look at the answers to the quiz and accept the fact that you have fear. Fear is a normal reaction to challenge or uncertainty, but demand of yourself the courage to work towards dispelling the fear.
Tip # 2 Require an excellent effort at all times. Don’t settle for less. This doesn’t mean you will always win, but, you will know that you gave it your best shot.
Tip # 3 See success. Whenever you think about competing do not allow yourself to see failure. Instead, replace the fearful or unsuccessful shot with a perfect one.
S² Tip
Redefine success from something that will expose you to something that will fulfill you.
In Another’s Words…
“A man’s doubts and fears are his worst enemies. ” — William Wrigley Jr., entrepreneur