Listen, I know that this is one of those things that are easier said than done and believe me I struggle with this too. But what I have realized is that even though it doesn’t seem to be the easiest thing to do does not mean that it is not the right thing to do.
I remember an instance where I had an idea to sell some gift items – I told my husband (and if you know anything about him he is my greatest cheer leader and critic all wrapped up in one – and I absolutely adore him for it) and he cheered me on, he mentioned it to everyone he came across, bought a whole bunch to give to people. But I didn’t mention it to my friends or colleagues. Why was that?
- Was it that I wasn’t confident about the product?
- Was it that I didn’t want to be perceived as
- Maybe it was just that I didn’t want to open myself up to receiving people’s opinion what I was doing and why I was doing it
- Maybe we are just scared of being too vulnerable – maybe people will think the idea sucks, maybe they will think you are broke and need the money, maybe they will ignore you, maybe this, maybe that…
- Sometimes we tell ourselves that there is nothing special about what we have/know
- Other times, it is that we are not a qualified authority on the subject.. So what should people listen to you
Honestly, I still wonder why? This really is unlike me because I typically am selective in whose opinion I listen to. Nonetheless, this was my reality at the time. I did some self reflection and challenged myself to put myself out there – tell people what I was doing an invite them to participate
When you eventually are able to get yourself to realize this, you will see how good you feel about it.
What does it matter really, if any of those things were true? Until you realize that it is enough that all you have is a different take on the subject,or a spin to the story, or just sharing the world through your own eyes is enough.
You are your own greatest obstacle, and once you are able to overcome that you will find that many of those other things you were concerned about don’t really matter. Make up your mind to ‘mind your own business/affairs’ and you will be infinitely more attractive, people will pay more attention to you if they feel that you yourself are convinced about what you are putting out there, and people will take you more seriously. It will be a process, so start small, look within at what you currently have in your hands, within your reach and start by being your own advocate for that
Are you starting a business, are you studying for a class, are you auditioning for a role, or interviewing for a job. Convince yourself first and be confident of your own ability, then take a step to broadcast yourself.