Hallway Consulting Group

So the theme for today is “do it afraid”. We talk about this often in the John Maxwell leadership team. It’s because we can paralyze ourselves from taking action with so many “what if” scenarios – and we build a fortress in our comfort zone. Could things go wrong? Yes…. Will things always go as planned? Definitely not… But we can adapt, modify and try again. It’s how great leaders are wired.

I’ve been there, and still am with some things. Those who know me are probably thinking, she’s not scared to try anything. But that’s just not true…… I have had a vision of creating a leadership blog aimed at new, or maybe even semi-new, leaders for quite some time. After 35 years of trial and error, why not share the bumps and bruises I’ve learned along the way? And why not share the wisdom that I received from so many great mentors on my journey? Maybe it could help someone else feel more confident when they feel like they don’t have it all figured out. But I didn’t even know where to start. Plagued with “what ifs”, thoughts and self-doubt, it’s held me back from even taking the first step past just talking about it and putting the idea into action.

Leaders all start somewhere, and every step forward involves some sort of risk. But it happens to all of us at some point. We begin doubting ourselves and wondering if someone put us in a role we just weren’t ready for. Will our ideas be taken seriously? Can we motivate our team to meet goals? And it feels like asking for help or guidance might make us look weak or show how much we really don’t know. Insecurity is a real thing for leaders! So people stop in their tracks and stay in the comfort zone of life rather than taking risks. While your comfort zone is just that, comfortable, nothing grows there. We are meant to grow and develop. It’s in our DNA. But fear, anxiety and insecurity often get in the way. Now, risks don’t have to be big and bold. Big risks might be that new job or promotion. But even small risks, like going to an event where you don’t know anyone, can seem impossible sometimes. It all comes down to perspective.

This week I decided it was time for me to do it afraid and figure out how to share my story. I took advice from a good friend who told me the end result isn’t nearly as important as the lessons learned and insights gained along the way. Getting started today, she was right. So here I am. Showing up. Giving it a try. And not being afraid to change, adapt or even fail. What will you do afraid this week?