5 Ways the Fear of Rejection Holds You Back

Everyone fears rejection at one time or another. Maybe you decided not to ask someone out on a date because you were afraid the object of your affection would decline. Or perhaps you didn't apply for that job because you worried you wouldn't get it. Either way, you may have missed out on your big break. The fear of rejection often serves as the single greatest obstacle that stands between a capable individual and enormous success. Its powerful grip can prevent you from reaching your greatest potential. Here are five ways the fear of rejection can hold you back: 1. You Avoid New Opportunities You're hard wired to avoid things that cause you to feel afraid. Fear is meant to keep you safe from danger. So while running away from a hungry lion makes sense, refusing to ask for a raise because you fear rejection isn't exactly logical. Eliminating any possible risk of rejection from your life will prevent you from exploring new opportunities. After all, there's no guarantee that the audience will appreciate your presentation or that your friends will support your ideas. But unless you're willing to put yourself out there and risk a rejection or two, you're not likely to receive many rewards. 2. You Try to Please Everyone One way to reduce the chances of being rejected is by trying to please everyone. Saying yes to every invite, and agreeing to do things you don't want to do, may make others like you--at least temporarily. But being a people-pleaser is likely to backfire in the...
Source: Healthy Living - The Huffington Post - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news