Lacking confidence and afraid

I've been climbing for about 6 months now and did my second V4 this week. I've been noticing a trend starting where I'm high up on a climb and the finishing hold seemingly requires me to have a hand on a bad hold (doesn't feel secure) then reach or/and do a dynamic movement up to the finish. It clicked today after trying a route with someone else and them mentioning their observations of my tendencies; that I do in fact put a lot of consideration into my feet because I am trying to place myself in the most stable position I can. This segways to what I think the crux is, when I feel I already don't have a good grip then taking a hand off will mean I'll fall/slip off. That lack of control, not feeling certain of my grip and position, therefore unstable, and not feeling like I can dictate when I'll come down makes me scared to take the risk and just go for it. Maybe physical and mental tiredness plays a part. I do intentionally focus a lot on technique because I want to be efficient. I'll add this has only been happening on climbs that go high on the wall. Any advice, suggestions, whatever may have helped you is appreciated!

Posted Jun 13, 2026, 11:37 PM UTC

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