4. “Making a Mistake Means I’m a Failure”
Children raised in high-pressure or critical environments often grow up terrified of making mistakes. You might have been shamed, yelled at, or ignored when you slipped up. Over time, you begin to see mistakes not as lessons, but as proof that you’re not good enough. This belief creates anxiety and perfectionism. You might avoid trying new things or beat yourself up over small errors. It can also lead to procrastination because the fear of failing becomes overwhelming. But mistakes are a natural part of learning and growth. Nobody gets everything right all the time. Being kind to yourself when things go wrong is a form of healing. You’re not a failure. You’re a person doing your best.
