Alright, fellow entrepreneurs, let’s talk about something we all know very well: that nerve-racking feeling of diving into the great unknown. It’s time to talk about how confronting the things that scare us the most is where the greatest potential for personal growth lies. Here are three ways you can push through the fear to become someone better on the other side.
- Step Out of Your Safe Space
I’ve found during my journey as a business owner that most weeks my Google calendar has at least a couple of things that make me a little uncomfortable.
Activities that I wouldn’t naturally participate in if I didn’t have the greater vision of my business fueling my actions. I’m naturally introverted so I don’t spend my free time wanting to make new connections or attend large networking events with the goal of finding potential partners or clients. It’s not a perfect science, but there is a correlation between the number of times I push myself to do something new and the chances I’ll make a new valuable connection.
One of the biggest challenges for me when it comes to this first step is getting out of my own head. Being a business owner has meant I’m learning to live with imposter syndrome. Even on the days when I doubt it, I have to act on my belief that I have something unique and valuable and perfect for my audience.
Whether it’s trying out a new product, pursuing a new audience, or pitching to potential investors, the sheer act of trying something new is where personal growth starts to unfold.
Take a step outside of the familiar THIS WEEK (start with a baby step!). You can do it!
- Expand Your Horizons:
As entrepreneurs, we frequently need to step into uncharted territory, whether it’s exploring new markets, developing new products, or trying to keep our finances in good order. It’s these audacious leaps into the unknown that broaden our horizons and introduce us to fresh experiences and opportunities. Personal growth occurs as we break free from our previous boundaries.
One of my most profitable lines of business today, marketing workshops, was not a service I had on my radar when I started my business. When the invitation came to be a part of a business planning workshop and talk about marketing to a small group of entrepreneurs, I decided to jump in (scared) and give it a try. It turned out to be one of the most rewarding and life-giving experiences.
My current territory expansion includes starting a blog (welcome to my first post!). What new opportunity are you hoping to explore? What boundary are you pushing?
- Learn Through Uncertainty:
The entrepreneurial journey is filled with ambiguity and uncertainty. When we embrace the unknown, we open ourselves to valuable learning experiences. It’s in these moments of not having all the answers that we develop problem-solving skills, adapt to change, and refine our decision-making abilities. We also sometimes come across unexpected gold mines!
Take some time to think about what lessons you’re learning in this current season.
Personal growth for business owners thrives on the courage to face your fears. Stepping outside of your safe space, expanding your horizons, and learning through uncertainty are the three cornerstones of this journey. So, when fear knocks at your door, remember that it might just be the doorway to your next chapter of personal and entrepreneurial growth. Let’s keep leaning into the fear and grow together. I can’t wait to hear what you do next.
