Fear is a response to physical and emotional danger; it should keep us alert and safe. But too much fear of perceived threats only causes anxiety and stress, and at work it can stall our careers.
Related: How to confront your fear-based thoughts
Here are five of the most common fears people have about work and five ways to overcome them:
1. Fear of not fitting in
Fear of rejection has existed since humans have been on earth. In tribal times, being ejected from the safety of a group could mean death, so this fear is ingrained in us.
Antidote:Listen carefully and be open.
More than anything, other people want to know that you listen to their ideas and concerns. You don't have to contribute to every discussion, but your team will appreciate knowing you'll hear them. Since everyone has different ideas, being open to hearing others' experiences will add to your own body of knowledge.
2. Fear of feeling stuck
We all want to feel that we can progress in a company and be rewarded. Knowing that it is in our power to influence this will help ease that fear.
Antidote:Learn to think two levels higher.
Ask yourself:What is the boss? what my boss wants and needs? What is this person's biggest challenge? How can I make my boss look good in the eyes of this person? What can I bring in terms of skills, expertise and results?
3. Fear of being hated
It is a normal and human trait to seek attention and praise from others. It's when we don't consider ourselves worthy, capable, and good enough that we let that fear take over.
Antidote:Refuse to criticize and assume the best.
When you really find something to love in others, they usually respond in kind. Finding the positive in a situation will help bring a different atmosphere to the whole team. Be sure that you are a friendly person. Either way, be friendly with everyone. Brigham Young said, “Why should we care what others think of us; do we trust their opinions more than our own? »
4. Fear of inadequacy/failure
Fear of failure can make us reluctant to get involved or try challenging new projects. When it forces us to procrastinate or fail to set new goals, it can lead to the very thing we fear – harming our careers.
Antidote:Clarify expectations and resist perfectionism.
Ask your boss, “What does success look like at the end of this project?” Then decide what feedback you need along the way to make sure you're on the right track. Remember that nothing is perfect. Be willing to try new things and do them imperfectly. Ask yourself:What did I learn? What could have been done differently if I had had perfect knowledge at the start?
5. Fear of being fired
There are many reasons why anyone can be fired:the company is losing key customers, there are huge changes in the industry or new management wants to bring the company in a different direction. We can't always control it, but we can plan for it.
Antidote:Stay informed and prepared.
Keep an open dialogue with your peers and your boss. Know the industry and the place of your company in this market. How is it doing in terms of finances, key customers and likely changes? Without complaining, ask your boss what you can do to lighten the workload and move projects and goals forward. Above all, keep a list of your own accomplishments so you can not only articulate them, but use them if you suddenly need to update your resume.
Related: The best career advice, from people who have made it to the top
