Don’t Be Afraid of Success

Don’t Be Afraid of Success

Frequently, I see that some students are so afraid to fail that they fear success. This happens in the classroom as well as the sports field. They are waiting to fail rather than expecting success.  One perfect example is my oldest daughter. She is super intelligent, beautiful, and a hard worker (when she wants to be). She is a high school senior this year, and there are six other seniors on the cheerleading squad. Four captains were named so obviously three seniors aren’t captains.

She was elected as one of the captains. Her first reaction was a sad one because she felt badly about the other cheerleaders she bonded with during camp. Empathy is a wonderful leadership trait, and I am proud she possesses that one. However, I told her not to fear success. Be proud of your accomplishment and continue to connect with your teammates. Just because you do not have a title does not mean you are not a leader. 

I had a parent tell me one time that everyone does not have to be a leader. That is true but if you are not a leader then you are always a follower. Someone else is making all the decisions for you. You may not like how those decisions affect you. You become a bystander, and someone else controls your destiny. Not only do they control your destiny but you become disempowered. The opposite, empowerment, can make quantum leaps in anyone’s ability to succeed. 

It is remarkable to see an empowered student rise in situations that require positive leadership. Students, and adults alike, must self-communicate their worth and their ability to contribute. Motivate yourself, inspire others! A positive attitude and confidence are catchy. So are gratitude and a number of other positive character traits. Pass them on!