The Fear That Changed My Life—And Can Change Your Career

By Constance Johnson | Executive CV Writer | Leadership Coach | Interview Specialist

What if the thing holding you back isn’t fear of failure—but fear of regret?

Before I launched my business, I had a comfortable senior executive career. A good salary, stability and predictable growth. On paper, everything was great.

But deep down, I knew I was meant for more. I wanted to help professionals break career barriers, step into leadership, and build confidence in their abilities. I wanted to create impact.

Still, I hesitated.

I worried about the risks. What if I failed? What if I was not good enough? What if no one wanted my services?

Then, I had a realization that changed everything:

?? The fear of regret was greater than the fear of failure.

I was not afraid of failing. I was afraid of looking back one day and realizing I never even tried.

That fear of regret gave me the push I needed to take the leap. And it is the same fear that has driven every bold, career-defining decision I have made since.

And you know what? That is the fear I want my clients to feel too.

Are You ‘Not Afraid Enough’ to Advance in Your Career?

I often meet executives who are frustrated, unfulfilled, and stuck. They tell me:

?? “I’d love to go for that promotion, but I’m not sure I’m ready.” ?? “I know I should be applying for bigger roles, but I don’t want to fail.” ?? “I want to leave my job, but what if I don’t get something better?”

Sound familiar?

Here’s what I tell them every time:

?? You are not afraid enough.

Because if you were, the fear of staying in the same place—of watching another year pass without progress—would outweigh the fear of making a move.

One client, an executive who had been overlooked for promotions for years, felt this exact way. She had the skills, but lacked confidence.

Together, we worked on:

? Reframing her mindset from “not ready” to “already qualified.”

? Building an executive brand that positioned her as a leader

? Preparing her for high-stakes interviews so she walked in self-assured

The result? She secured the promotion and negotiated a salary increase beyond her expectations.

Fear of Regret: Your Career’s Greatest Motivator

Here’s the truth

?? The people who succeed in leadership are not the ones who never feel fear

?? They are the ones who use fear as fuel to push past hesitation

?? They recognize that staying still is a bigger risk than moving forward.

If you’re waiting to “feel ready,” you’ll be waiting forever

Your career will not grow until you do

Are You Ready to Turn Fear into Action?

If you are reading this and realizing that your fear of regret is stronger than your fear of change, then it is time to act.

?? Here’s how I can help you:

? Executive CVs that position you as a top-tier leader

? Interview coaching that gives you confidence in high-pressure moments

? Leadership coaching to help you transition into senior roles with authority

?? The First 5 Executives Who Book This Week Get a Complimentary Career Strategy Call. DM me or visit cvcoach.uk to schedule a consultation.

Your next career move is waiting. Are you ready to take the leap?

?? What’s Your Take? What’s the biggest career move you have been afraid to make? Drop a comment. I would love to hear your thoughts!

?? If this resonated with you, hit ‘Repost’ to help someone else take the leap.