Fear of failure. And why it helps.

30 years of experience, many successes. And yet, I still get that knot in my stomach before every important conversation.

I always strive to achieve the maximum. Top-notch, getting the most out of myself, pushing boundaries. In all my conversations, workshops, and coaching sessions.

That sounds nice, ambitious and strong.

But what I never tell you? That drive comes at a price.

Fear of failure.

It's still there. Even now, even after 30 years of sales and entrepreneurship, even after all the successes. And you'd think: after all the mistakes, you'd let go of that fear.

No way.

The good news? The impact is different. Where once "mistakes weren't allowed"—not by me, and not in my team—I now agree with myself in advance that, despite the best possible preparation, I know "things will always go differently, and that's okay."

And the funny thing? Business is better than ever, customers are happy, and... so am I!

So that fear just remains. And yes, sometimes things don't go "perfectly." And that feels uncomfortable. Because I always feel responsible.

But the gift? Learning something new every time.

And the trick is to maintain your drive, despite the fear. To keep developing.

Because that pain? It's part of every professional who truly wants to achieve something. And as they say in my favorite reality show, "Kamp Koningsbrugge," "pain is temporary."