Confidence series.....

Everyone questions themselves occasionally, and everyone needs reassurance from time to time – I am no different. I remember sitting on my couch while writing my book, feeling petrified. What if I am not a good writer? What if starting over on a new career at 43 is a terrible idea? What if my book isn’t good? Why would I think that it would be? When fears and crazy ideas like these come into my mind, I have trained myself to flip them all around: What if I am a good writer? What if starting over on a new career at 43 is my best idea yet? What if my book isgood? Why wouldn’t I think it would be? This is my go-to move when the fear monster comes knocking.

Here’s another move that works every time: I have a few friends/mentors that I keep on speed dial. Really, they are my own personal cheering squad. When I begin to question myself and all of my own tricks aren’t working, I dial whomever it is I need in that moment and ask for help. Typically, the conversation will go like this: “Vanessa, I am panicked and afraid that it might not be a great idea to move forward with this book.” She then replies, “You are right. It might not be a great idea. How does going back to being treated miserably by an awful person in a job that you have outgrown sound? Also, you succeed because you work hard, and the fact that you are all-in on this project and giving it your all makes you different. The fact that you are being transparent makes this one of a kind. The fact that you are doing this to help others means it will work. It’s going to work. Those quick calls give me the boost I need to get engaged again and keep going. Who is on your speed dial that you need to call and thank right now for their support?