by Leigh Goessl

Created on: April 14, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2008

Once you've failed at something, it's hard to forge ahead because you're afraid of failing again. Everyone fails at something at one time in their life or another, but the best thing to do is get right back up on that proverbial horse and don't let fear hold you back.

This is easier said than done because overcoming that distinct fear of failure is hard to do. There are several techniques and measures you can make use of in order to help you overcome your fears.

TEN WAYS TO OVERCOME FEAR OF FAILURE

1. Tell yourself "I can do this". Remember the children's story, "The Little Engine that Could"? In the story the train couldn't get up the hill and he kept telling himself "I think I can, I think I can" and lo and behold he succeeded! Yes, you may have failed at something in the past, but that doesn't mean you will fail again. Even if it's an attempt at something you've never tried, keep in mind the old adage "nothing ventured, nothing gained". If you fail you can say at least you took that chance; if you never even tried, you lose, but it's worse than failing because you'll never have made the attempt. Keep positive and give it your best shot, because reaching a level of confidence is a definitive measure of success.

2. Maintain a positive attitude. A positive approach to situations can make or break them. I think when we look at the glass as half full instead of empty it opens up a realm of possibilities and motivates us to give those intimidating things a try. Don't think of it as failure, view failures as learned lessons. Over the course of our lives we learn from our mistakes and viewing them as a positive not a negative can do wonders.

3. Focus on your inner self and do some self-reflection. Why is it you are afraid of failure? Is it because of past mistakes or just the fear of failure itself? Often if we look deep within ourselves we realize the opportunity is worth the risk and it also is a way to discover what it truly is we want to achieve; this can inspire resilience.

4. Baby steps. If your fear is extreme or truly preventing you from moving forward or making those much needed changes in your life, don't jump in full force, take it a bit slower and get your feet wet a little bit at a time. This sometimes eases you into an opportunity; depending on the situation this may not be possible, but if it is, it can help ease the transition.

5. Talk to others. Reach out and communicate with others who have dealt with the same issue you feel you've failed at. See what

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