Courage

Fear, lack of confidence, risk aversion are fairly common themes among those feeling “stuck” or worse yet “trapped” in their current career.  I often hear people wanting a change but not knowing where to start.  I also hear individuals falling “victim” to their circumstances.

It’s not so important that you know what your end game is, you know what your goals are or your path is all laid out.  What is important is to take action – no matter how small an action to get yourself moving forward.  Following are some tips to start the process.

Tip 1:  You’re in charge.  So many people give others power over their lives.  These are people who live regularly with the word “should”.  Anytime a “should” shows up, it’s an indication that you’re listening to someone else.  You’ll know your in charge when “should” is replaced by “I will” or “I won’t”.

Tip 2:  20 seconds.  From the movie “I Bought a Zoo” you only have to be courageous for 20 seconds.  This happens for me when I don’t think and analyze too much about something.  In other words, I act on gut instinct – I just know it’s the right thing to do.  That’s how I got my first CEO position – I said – out loud to the right person – “I want to be CEO”.

Tip 3:  You’re not alone.  Many times I hear people observe that others act so confidently and seem to know what they are doing.  What you don’t see, is they may be as nervous about trying something new as you are – you just don’t notice it.  Feel the nerves and act anyway.  You don’t have much to lose.

Tip 4:  Embarrassment.  Some people say they don’t take action because they don’t want to embarrass themselves.  I will let you in on a reality, if you fail, very few will notice.  Those that do notice, will not care.  Embarrassment can be deep seated in growing up – when other kids made fun of us attempting something new.  Adults don’t do that, they don’t have the time or energy to spend time judging you.

Tip 5:  Let go.  I’ve met people who use fear, lack of confidence and risk aversion as a safety blanket.  Their self image is that they are timid, don’t want to make waves – they’re just not like those risk takers.  It is an excuse not to take action, yet they still struggle and complain about their lot in life.  No excuses, you’re all grown up, nothing will happen unless you do take action.

Tip 6:  Self image.  Your self image is just that, your image of yourself.  You are in charge and can create any self image you want.  Think about children playing, they can be super heros with super powers at a moment’s notice.  They can do anything and be anything they want.  Start with what you want to be, believe it and work backward to get it.

Tip 7:  You’re not that important.  Sometimes when trying something new we feel somehow, everyone is watching us – which only heightens our fears and reluctance.  Another secret – very few are taking notice.  We are only important to a very few and those are people who love us.  If someone loves you, they will support and encourage you to try new things.

What’s been your experience?  What works for you?  Anything holding you back?  Please leave a comment below.

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