What's stopping you?

February 6, 2014


I was recently thinking about what holds us back from doing some of the most important things in our lives.  I believe that fear is possibly the #1 greatest deterrent.  Like most of us, I have never wanted to disappoint myself or others in my life, so taking that big leap towards stepping out of my shell almost always came with risk.  I’ve learned that if I want to accomplish something big, I have to eventually let my close family and friends know my intentions.  Because I feel strongly about what others might think, I noticed that by telling them, and making my commitment public, it helped me to make the big changes that I was seeking.

What I found works during time of doubt is to first be my own cheerleader.  All I have to do is look back on previous successes or lessons I have learned in order to gain that confidence.  However, to address fear of what others might think is quite tough indeed.  I’ve heard it said many times that all rewards in life come with some risk.  I also know from experience that some of the worst feelings I’ve ever had weren’t caused by risks I took, but ones that I didn’t take.  Rather than letting fear stop my progress, all I have to do is think, “What if it did happen?"  When I fast forward my vision and see my successes, instead of possible failures, it gives me the courage to face that fear knowing that I might always face regret if I didn't act upon those opportunities. Who wants to look back on their life and regret not taking the step you knew would make all the difference to your happiness or fulfill a dream? If you’ve been asking yourself “what if” lately, maybe you need to examine what is stopping you.  May we all have the strength to do those very things that might seem impossible.  If taking that first step gives you a sense of purpose and inner peace, what do you have to lose?

Let nothing stop you!!