What's the biggest obstacle standing between you and what you want?
You.
What's up with that anyway? Why do we stop ourselves from getting what we want? Seems pretty silly, doesn't it? You'd think that we would be our own advocate, wouldn't you?
Hard truth. But you're not reading this for the easy stuff, are you?
You want to show up, take up space and grow your confidence.
Let's look at some of the common things that can get in your way. Maybe you'll see yourself here or, maybe they'll prompt you to notice what gets in your way.
Here are some common ones:
Overthinking.
What other people may think.
Self-doubt.
Can you relate?
They like to show up...especially when you're onto something big. Not convenient at all.
Let's unpack these obstacles...
Overthinking.
Just the term suggests that you're doing too much of something. In this case, thinking. This can send you down all of the pathways of doom and gloom - you know the "what can go wrong" trip. It lets you believe that you're thinking about all of the possible options. When does thinking cross over to overthinking? When you're cycling around and around and not taking any action.
What other people think.
One of my personal favourites that I'm actively working on. Because we're pack animals, it's in our DNA to care what others in our tribe may think about the decisions we make. Historically, their disapproval could have led to abandonment and sure death via a saber tooth tiger. Not so much now! But those feelings are REAL.
Self-Doubt
Why does this one feel so icky? Probably because the one person you should be able to count on and trust is YOU! Self-doubt causes you to doubt your instincts, the feeling that you get in your heart or gut that you can't explain so you push it down. You doubt it and ultimately, yourself.
The cool thing about all of these? They can't exist when you're in action. An action that doesn't have to be big to be effective. One step can take you away from overthinking and self-doubt. And it's pretty difficult to worry about what others are thinking when you're doing stuff! Action. It really is the elixir!
There's more good news here for you as well. You DO have all the skills, strengths, and capabilities you need to overcome or work with the things that get in your way.
Ready to explore?
Let’s get to it…
Your challenge…
Pick one small situation where you're not getting any traction and consider the following:
Overthinking:
When you find yourself falling into this spiral it's definitely time to get out of the situation. Step away and get some distance, perhaps literally. Go for a walk, do some sun salutations...anything. Allow your mind to wander. When you come back to the situation commit to taking one small action.
What other people think:
Ask yourself: Do they have what I want? Are they successful at the things I strive for? Or the biggie - would you want their life? Pay attention to the answers that come up.
Self-Doubt:
Ask yourself: What fear is getting in my way? Yep, fear is typically at the root of self-doubt. Fear of rejection, getting it wrong, disappointing someone or yourself. Pay attention.
What if you treated your obstacles as information? Something to be curious about rather than something to judge. Acknowledge them and then commit to action. Pick up the phone. Hit send on the email. Post that video. Then exhale. It's a process and you're doing great.
If you're ready to become your own advocate Contact me You have all of the skills, strengths, and capabilities you need. Let’s work together and reconnect you with them!
Warmly,
Ann