You have a big idea, project or work of art that is lying in wait until the perfect wave of motivation carries you to success, fame and fortune.
For me, the project was a music podcast/online business hybrid that would magically appear once the surge of motivation & doors of opportunity flew open which hasn’t happened. This article is part of my personal fight to keep the project alive until it becomes a reality.
Unfortunately, most of you are in a similar pattern until your big idea or project eventually fades away. With courage and effort, this does not have to be the outcome for you.
So what is holding you back from creating what matters most?
Let’s explore this together.
The Ugly Big 3 – The Obstacles that Hold Us Back Taking Action :
- Fear of Failure:
One of the most significant barriers to action is the fear of failure. Many of us worry about the negative impact of failing on a public stage. This fear can be so paralyzing that it keeps us from getting started.
- Lack of Confidence:
Similar to fear, a lack of self confidence can also prevent us from taking action. This may originate from internal negative self beliefs or external criticism from peers & family. We often underestimate our own potential causing us to view our dreams as unachievable or too ambitious.
- Resistance to Change:
Many of us prefer the comfort of familiarity over uncertainty and the risk of something potentially better. The resistance can manifest itself as procrastination, rationalization or denial.
Positive Words of a Stranger
Recently, I had a spontaneous conversation outside of a restaurant bar turned night club after business hours.
While sitting outside waiting for my dinner reservation time, a member of the performing band (John) took a seat across from me and started a conversation. Our talk went from a casual exchange to a deep conversation about creating art and making the time for the projects that make us feel alive.
John encouraged me to use my gift of communication and the way I ask deeper questions to help others get heard. He had no idea that I had been delaying on my podcast project. I greatly appreciated his encouragement.
Sometimes, the positive words of a stranger can be the nudge we didn’t know we needed.
The World Needs Your Voice
On a recent podcast, Kevin Smith the Film Producer & Director speaks about how people look to artist and creators to speak for them through the art they create.
There are many people in the world that are not in a position to create what speaks to how many others feel. This is a privilege that many allow to go to waste.
Each us have an audience that is waiting for what you have to say or create because it speaks for them.
Overcoming the Fear
Overcoming the barriers that prevent us from taking action on our dreams can be a silent battle that weighs heavy. The following are helpful ways to overcome the obstacles listed above.
- Overcoming the fear of failure
- Reframe the Failure – Shift your perception of failure from being a negative outcome to a learning opportunity.
- Start with Small Achievable Goals – Break down your larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks that are easier to achieve.
- Develop a Growth Mindset – Cultivate a mindset that values growth and learning over perfection.
- Boosting Self Confidence
- Build from the small wins – Build confidence by achieving small successes. These victories, no matter how minor, can boost your belief in your own ability to succeed.
- Positive self talk – Replace critical or pessimistic thoughts with affirmations and optimistic beliefs about your capabilities.
- Seek Feedback and Mentorship – Engage with mentors or peers who can provide constructive feedback and guidance.
- Overcoming Resistance to Change
- Small Changes – Instead of making sweeping changes, introduce small changes gradually.
- Focus on The Benefits – Focusing on the positive outcomes can help motivate you to move forward despite the discomfort.
- Create A Support System – Their encouragement and the sense of accountability can make it easier to embrace change.
