Fear – defined as “an unpleasant often strong emotion caused by anticipation of awareness of danger”- can paralyze us. It stops us in our tracks, halting forward movement and limiting our progress. This morning, I had a moment of clarity: when things get hard, it’s easy to give up. But what if we didn’t?
An Inc. article listed the top 10 fears that hold people back in life: change, loneliness, failure, rejection, uncertainty, something bad happening, getting hurt, being judged, inadequacy, and loss of freedom. I can relate to at least seven of them. How about you? For instance, I fear being rejected by readers of this blog and my posts.
I recently discovered a purpose I never knew I should pursue. It may sound strange, but this discovery has given me a determination to do things that scare me. If I don’t, I allow fears to undermine my future – and the future of my family. A few days ago, I spoke with a colleague who runs a multi-million dollar company. As she shared her story, I realized that her journey mirrored mine. Every day, she pushed past her fears to realize a bigger purpose.
I started a coaching and consulting business. It’s not a multi-million dollar company…yet. I never dreamed of being an entrepreneur – it’s not something I thought was “me.” But I’ve welcomed new clients, watched my business grow, and mentored aspiring entreprenuers. I’ve experienced the freedom to live my values, none of which would have been possible without courage.
Confession
There were days I thought none of this would happen. When I was laid off earlier this year, I was in a tough place. My last five years in corporate Amercia had taken a toll. I was burned out, dealing with panic attacks, and strugging with health issues. I thought I was to blame for everything that went wrong. I didn’t tell everyone I was out of work because it’s embarrassing. And I kept replaying a number of scenarios over and over in my head. I was in a low place and couldn’t see how I could recover, let alone apply for another job.
I’m not saying this to claim victimhood but to offer perspective. Have you been there? It’s hard when life feels out of control and you don’t think God is listening.
Lesson
Through it all, I learned about myself. I learned how to reframe my thinking. Where I once saw scarcity and lack, I began to see abundance. I created environmnts where my dreams could flourish. I learned to share my story with trusted friends and loved ones, to give back, and to dream big. How can you dream big?
I also learned to listen. Tasha Cobbs-Leonard’s song Do It Anyway gave me strength on days when I doubted my purpose.
Don’t tell me I can’t
When I know I can
Don’t tell me I’m not
When I know I am
Don’t tell me I won’t
Cause I’m gonna do it anyway
Ryan Holiday, in his book Courage is Calling, shares the idea that adversity can be a way forward. The obstacle in front of you isn’t stopping you – it’s guiding you toward something great. All it takes is a courageous, bold step.
So, what’s your bold step? Got a business idea? Map out a plan. Reach out, and I’ll give you pointers. Already have business but want to grow? Do It Anyway. Need to save money for a vacation? Start with $10 today.
For the next 30 days, challenge yourself. Do something you haven’t done before. Take one small action every day toward a fear that’s been holding you back. That’s the #DoItAnywayChallenge.