Most of my life I think I’ve been too timid—about approaching people—especially people who could help me move forward with my career mission as I push past fear. All last week I thought about making Friday my “call them” day. I wanted to reach out to certain important people to whom I’d already sent LOI’s—letters of introduction.
Fridays are good days, I think for “most” people. They get fewer emails that day, they’re looking forward to the weekend, and the stress level just “feels” less that day. I called six people, left two voicemails, talked to two assistants, and actually talked to three of my “intendeds.”
I had to gear myself up for this. All those niggling thoughts flashed through my head, raising my self-doubt and trashing my self-esteem. I’d been pumped up by a few people last week whom I’d interviewed about succeeding in the job market in general—that’s not “exactly” me, for I’m freelance, but they gave me such motivation that I called upon it when I needed it most on Friday.
We can push past fear
No, no one hung up on me, and the two individuals I spoke to were actually nice. One was quite interested in what I was saying. Another made several excellent suggestions, and even as we spoke, I began to formulate a plan.
When I was done, I said an “Atta’ girl!” to myself. Then I wondered why I wasted so much time worrying about something that didn’t happen. Sure, it’s a big country, and L. A. is a big city, and lots of people are trying to make something of themselves and their ideas.
But why not me?
And why not you—whatever you want to do?
It’s your time
Neither of us wants to regret not having done something that we were passionate about because we were afraid to take a risk, or afraid of being told “no” and dealing with rejection. Not even trying results in the same outcome as being told “no”: Nothing happens.
So often we procrastinate and ultimately sabotage ourselves as we make excuses for our reticence. We can’t wish our wish to just happen. It requires action from us, as we walk into that place of fear. Sure, it feels uncomfortable for a while, but then it feels really good.
Yes, when I next have to push past my boundaries and push past fear, I’m going to think about not doing it—but only for a moment. Time’s a wastin’ and no one will read my mind—or yours. Wish me luck, and I truly wish the same for you! No one said this was easy.
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(Photo courtesy imagerymajestic on FreeDigitalPhotos.net)