Jan 15, 2019 | by Cindy Sullivan
This is the time of year when most of use are considering and setting goals for the new year. We're operating from a place of possibility and big thinking. That's as it should be! That is where we can take a much broader consideration of what we want to accomplish, where we want to start and when we hope to get there . The difficulty is that when we have to move into a place of action, there are unforeseen things that start holding us back. FEAR is one of those - - and you may not even realize it's there.
So how can we stop FEAR before it stops US?
- Stare it in the eyes! Immediately after deciding to embark on a project or goal, ask yourself if there's anything there that scares you. Be honest. If you've set a BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal) sometimes the idea of actually succeeding can bring on anxiety. "If I actually do this - - then what?!?!"
- Ask "What's the best thing that can happen?" AND "What's the worst thing that can happen?" When we look at the possibilities of accomplishing something alongside the potential negatives, you get a more realistic view of risk. If left for us to just ruminate on in our mind, those negatives tend to grow - talking us out of sticking with it or even taking the first step.
- Figure out what part is causing you fear or discomfort. Big projects and goals often have many steps to take before completion. Chances are, it's only one or a few of those steps that are causing hesitation. Break down those large goals and list all the actions you'd need to take. Which ones jump out and cause you hesitation? What could you do to make that step easier or less intimidating? What resources are there that could help you tackle that part?
- Grow your knowledge. Things seem much less frightening when we get to know them. If your goal is to do something new and unfamiliar, begin gathering information first. Learn about a subject, read, ask questions from those in the know. You'll start to really see what needs to be done and can formulate a plan. Just like a kid who is afraid of the monsters in the dark, things don't seem quite so bad when you turn the lights on. Sometimes they disappear altogether!
Do you want to make headway this year and see those goals through? Contact Cindy for a free consultation to find out how we can partner together to make 2019 the most productive and purposeful year yet!
