Fear of Failure vs. Fear of Regret: A Leadership Choice

“Shift from the fear of failure to the fear of regret.” – Kwame Christian, American Negotiation Institute

As a coach and facilitator, I often work with leaders who are holding back—not because they don’t have good ideas, but because they’re afraid to get it wrong.

Fear of failure is human.

But so is regret.

And while failure can hurt, regret lingers. It shows up later when the moment’s passed, and the window has closed.

Maybe you’ve hesitated to:

• Speak a needed truth

• Step into a new role

• Share a bold idea

• Set a needed boundary

• Reach out for support

  
  

Here’s the truth: We don’t regret imperfect action nearly as much as we regret inaction.

And courageous leadership?

It’s not reckless—it’s intentional.

So next time you feel the fear creeping in, ask yourself:

Is the risk of trying really greater than the cost of wondering "What if"?

Because regret rarely comes from showing up—it comes from sitting back.

Let this be your invitation to move. Thoughtfully. Boldly. Authentically.

Your leadership journey depends on it.

Move from fear to purpose. Start your transformation today.

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