Our mind is both our greatest asset and our greatest enemy. While it can craft amazing ideas, it’s also capable of conjuring perceived threats that may never come to fruition. It can range from finances, to health, career, and even in networking communications.

It’s easy to imagine worst-case scenarios such as rejection, failure, or embarrassment. These fears are speculative at best, far from being rooted in actual outcomes.

In addition to the worst case scenario, it’s hard to imagine the “invisible” opportunities we don’t yet know are possible.

Ultimately, this creates a lose/lose scenario where you’re trapped between a probable failure and having nothing to gain.

Who would take that risk?

So how do we shift our mindset for the better?

Imagine Success

Often, we’re too focused on unproductive “what-if’s”. Rather than being transfixed on fears, imagine the potential rewards. Take time to imagine and focus on the significant professional gains you can acquire by taking a leap of faith.

Reflect on Real Experiences

As humans, it is natural to be reluctant in stepping out of our comfort zone. But sometimes, by charting the unknown we discover treasure. Reflect on real success stories; many businesspeople initially feared the first step that led them to success.

Start Small

You don’t have to rush by running to your goal. Taking slow, incremental steps is just as impactful. When you’re comfortable with managing small risks, you can continue building confidence to reduce the intimidation factor of larger uncertainties.

Challenge Your Thoughts

Question the validity of your fears. Are they real or imagined? Losses are a possibility, but the same goes for wins. Recalibrate your mind to understand that every time you think you may lose, there’s a chance that you can win.

To wrap everything up, here are four keys to focus on:

1. Imagine Success: Focus on what you can win both in the short term and long term.

2. Reflect on Real Experience: Rest in the assurance that you aren’t alone in your fears. Build the courage to take the leap.

3. Start Small: Begin with little so you can be more confident and comfortable with tackling bigger challenges.

4. Challenge Your Thoughts: Question the validity of your mind’s negativity and realign with a more positive outlook.

Life provides plenty of opportunities. How many have you missed by focusing on the “what-ifs”?

Today, start to recalibrate your thinking with these four takeaways.