Dr. Flowers shares strategies for entrepreneurs and leaders to overcome limiting beliefs and self-sabotaging behaviors grounded in neuroscience, psychological safety, and emotional resilience.
What if “failure” was just R&D?
|
Hi Reader, I was in conversation with a group of business leaders last week where some were feeling an inner resistance around launching a new offer… Due to what ultimately amounted to a ‘fear of failure.’ I shared how we tend to treat failure like a final verdict - like it’s concrete evidence that we’re not ready, capable, or worthy. But ironically enough, when it comes to testing new ideas and initiatives… Failure is simply part of the research and development process… The same process billion-dollar companies use to innovate, grow, and dominate their industries. Think about it… • Tech companies release beta versions knowing they’ll fix bugs. • Fashion brands test small collections before going all in. • Car manufacturers run prototypes through crash tests on purpose. These companies expect missteps on the way to mastery. Why should it be any different for you in your business or leadership role? It’s time to reframe that failure isn’t the opposite of success, but rather a part of it. Two Ways to Work Through “Fear of Failure” Now
Run Your Own Experiments
Treat a goal or project you’ve been avoiding as a “test run.” Ask yourself, “If this was just data collection, what would I try?” This shifts pressure into curiosity.
Define the Real “Worst Case”
Write down your worst-case scenario. Then, list what you would do if it happened. Most leaders find the “scary” version shrinks when they realize they can adapt and recover. Remember, you’ve faced fear of failure multiple times before - probably without even realizing it. Every time you solved a problem, adjusted your approach, or learned from a misstep… this is you doing your own research & development! That’s not failing. That’s leading. innerReflection: P.S. Whenever you're ready, here's a few ways we can work together: * I’m opening up my calendar for organizational and workplace wellness trainings for the fall! If your organization would like to explore offering a workshop or talk on supporting the mental and emotional wellness of your team, you can fill out the interest form here. I'd love to discuss partnering with your organization! * We're in the second half of the 2nd cohort of the innerWORK Collective! If you'd like to be kept in the loop for when the doors open for the next round (along with updates on TRANSCEND - my newest mindset mastermind), then head right here to join the waitlist (at no obligation to you). Join me on a journey where I guide leaders and entrepreneurs to actively release limiting beliefs and self-sabotaging behaviors through a process of inner exploration... and outer transformation! You'll be the first to know when doors open, get early bird rates, and qualify for special bonuses available only to those on the waitlist! With courage and curiosity! Enjoyed this newsletter? Feel free to forward this email (in its entirety) to someone who may benefit! Received this newsletter from a friend? Feel free to sign up here, and receive a free mindset planner as a ‘thank you!’ |
Dr. Siobhan D. Flowers
Dr. Flowers shares strategies for entrepreneurs and leaders to overcome limiting beliefs and self-sabotaging behaviors grounded in neuroscience, psychological safety, and emotional resilience.
Hi Reader, Have you ever noticed self-doubt seems to get loudest right before you hit send, make the ask, or green-light a decision? This is your brain’s threat detector (the amygdala) asking for safety. And when this type of uncertainty spikes, your body gears up, and the rational thinking part of your brain (your prefrontal cortex) gets a little fuzzy which cues behaviors like perfectionism or avoidance. All you have to do in these moments is give your brain a sense of safety and certainty...
Hey Reader, This month, let’s talk about the one thing leaders aren’t talking about enough… As the ambitious leader that you are, you're probably juggling 100 tabs in your brain… Clients, deadlines, payroll, strategy, vision… the list goes on. But where do YOU fit into your own 'to-do' list? May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it’s a powerful reminder that our impact starts from within. Because distress and burnout don’t just appear overnight… It creeps up first as a whisper seeking...
Hey Reader Let’s talk about a form of rest we don’t often name… Connection. This is on my mind because I’ve just returned home after spending 3 days in Atlanta where I had the honor to speak to a room full of education consultants… All about overcoming their fears and strengthening their entrepreneurial mindset. My presentation was impactful... but what I also noticed was the transformation happening simply through the relationships being cultivated in the space. Laughing. Sharing. Community....