If there’s one thing I’ve learned this last month, it’s that the looming fear of failure does not disappear when you find a productivity system that works.
I always thought that once I found the perfect productivity system, it would somehow unlock a part of me, helping me start truly living my life. I imagined my life would blossom into exactly what I wanted. However, after finally breaking free from the never-ending cycles of planning and revisions, I found that my mind quickly found new ways to distract me from the important work. I was stuck in the same place, despite my efforts.
Although escaping the productivity cycles did help, I learned there was something deeper holding me back: the fear of failure.
Hi, I’m Ryn Elizabeth! I am a deeply reflective and emotional human learning how to create without abandoning myself. My ultimate goal? To build a life that actually fits and learn how to make space for MYSELF in my own life.
For 2026, I’ve made a new year’s resolution to overcome my fear of failure by focusing on presence. I’ve found that when I get present, I’m more aware of who I am, who I am becoming, and who I feel called to become.
The first part of that hurdle: finding a productivity system that didn’t leave me stuck in endless perfectionism cycles. But developing a productivity system is just one step in that process. Overcoming fear is a whole different beast.
Here are 3 Things I’m Doing to Overcome My Fear of Failure
(1) Remove what makes me feel disconnected & disassociated
For me, this starts with committing to significantly reducing my social media usage.
I mentioned previously that though fear of failure and presence may seem unrelated, I actually think they are deeply connected. I believe escapism and disconnection from myself are part of the reason why I’ve strayed so far from that fearless little girl I used to be.
I think one of the hardest parts about growing older and being addicted to screens is that you never achieve the life that you desire for yourself. You know you can achieve it, but it all feels hard and distant.
That includes actions that lead to disconnected & disassociated feelings like overworking without food, water, or brain breaks.
(2) Embrace Fun and Exciting Experiences (Alone and with Others)
I’m usually someone who tends to say no unless I feel confident I can meet expectations. I tend to plan and research thoroughly until I feel absolutely ready.
However, I’ve been practicing saying yes more often, even when it feels a bit scary. I remind myself: “Is this something I genuinely want to try?” to help me distinguish whether it’s fear or simply a lack of interest holding me back.
(3) Moving from Love
I’ve been exploring the book “All About Love,” and it’s really helped me reflect on my thoughts about love and how it influences my relationship with myself and others. Turns out, love is much more nuanced than it seems.
It’s about finding a balance between honoring my own boundaries and respecting others—acknowledging each person as a being created from love.
I write about art, psychology, and self-actualization—and what it means to live and create with clarity instead of control.
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