If you notice yourself getting scared or holding back as you build your business or career, you're not alone.
Fear is a natural part of the professional growth process and tends to show up every time we make a change or UP our level of success.
The bad news is that fear wants to keep you stuck and in your place…and it’s very good at its job.
The good news is that fear can serve you beautifully when it comes to your process, your goals and your results, as long as you don’t let it run the show.
Here are 3 ways to work WITH you fear so it can help you accomplish more professionally.
Remember that fear is your friend
While fear can feel intense, at its core it’s a fiercely loving, protective energy that wants to keep you from harm.
When you get scared as you climb the ladder of success, it’s not because you’re doing something wrong, it’s because you’re doing something that matters. Otherwise, fear would have no reason to be there.
I often tell my clients that while I don't want them to be afraid (or resistant or doubtful or any of the other ways fear tends to show up), it's a good sign that they are. If they have no fear whatsoever, it usually means we're shooting too low when it comes to their goals and their vision.
Recognizing fear for what it is and knowing that it’s trying to help gives you the opportunity to see it in a different light…and even embrace it.
Let fear speak to you
Once people start to recognize their fear, they usually want to shut it down.
Whether it’s that nasty voice inside telling you your dream is ridiculous or the pit in your stomach when you step on a stage, negotiate a deal or confront a tough employee, fear expresses itself powerfully and it’s rarely nice about it.
But fear has a lot to say and a lot it can teach you about exactly what you need to move forward. When you check in and question what you’re most afraid of, your fear will let you know what’s really holding you back.
Asking, listening and paying attention to your inner voice and its concerns means you can actually do something about them.
Create a strategy to help
When you know what you’re really afraid of, you can now take action in a whole new way.
Fear doesn’t get to decide whether you make your next move, but it does get to help you make that move easier or more comfortable.
If you’re not speaking up at meetings because you think your ideas aren’t worthwhile, maybe you share those ideas with someone you trust to get feedback, support and some practice in advance. If you’re not reaching out to prospects because you lack confidence in what you offer, you can ask your current clients exactly how they’ve benefited from your services - and even get some great testimonials too.
Whatever it is you’re afraid of, there’s always a way to soothe your fear (inside) and design a strategy (outside) to help you create the success you deserve.
Want my help with your business or career?
If you’re looking to pivot into a new career or shift your current job or business so you can stop surviving and start thriving, I’m here to help. Sign up for a Free Meet & Greet Coaching Consultation and we’ll discuss how you can uplevel your work and life now.