I am in the process of making the shift from corporate crusader to entrepreneur. A shift, that in my head, is a done deal. It's something I could have done a long time ago except for one giant hurdle standing in my way.
For most of my life, my overdeveloped inner critic ruled the roost.
I did what I was supposed to do.
I followed the rules.
I challenged nothing.
I just went with the tide.
All my big ideas fell to the wayside as I systematically checked off the boxes of an average life.
Except I'm not average. None of us are.
We have unique skills and dreams that are meant to be shared with the world around us.
For 10 years I have held the vision of teaching people how to improve their lives and businesses by honing their mindset and leadership skills.
I had a vision of leaders standing confidently for what they believe, making impact in the world around them, and sharing their inspiring messages -- whether this meant leading in their business, career, or relationships.
And for 10 years, I couldn't get started. I didn't know how or why or what was standing in my way. I over thought myself in circles trying to move past what was blocking me.
Until I realized what was blocking me was ME and man, that really pissed me off. I look back on the younger, rule following, terrified version of me with regret. Why couldn't you just get out of your own way, follow less rules, be a little braver?
So here is what I would tell my younger, less confident self.
Dear Me,
You are standing in the way of your own success. Here's why:
- You aren't letting yourself fail. This is so painful and scary but the truth is, success only comes through failure.
If I want success, I know today that all I need to do is review this list regularly and adjust my course where necessary.
What about you? How are you standing in the way of your own success?