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What’s the difference between those that do, and those that do not? Action and investment.
I field many calls from people who are “kicking tires” and are “doing research” before they commit. They think they are taking action but in actuality, it is distraction, not action. These people “feel” they are making progress, because they can point to a list of things that they have read, listened to, watched on the internet, people they have consulted with, and even signed contracts for services and programs.
It’s all a smoke screen to distract from their lack of inner sense self-worth. Rather than sit with themselves, and do an inventory to determine their strengths and weaknesses, and then promote the good and correct the bad, they distract themselves with busy work and a constant weighing of options, rather than pick a lane and pursue it.
One man I’m working with now has signed a contract with me for services that I’m ready, willing and able to perform, and he keeps finding obstacles to prevent us from starting. There’s a new project that is taking priority, or he’s getting some flack from his family. But the real reason for the delays is that he’s scared and anxious about taking the first step into his new reality.
We all have those moments of self-doubt and fear that prevent us from moving forward, but the key for those who wish to set themselves up for long-term success is that they know they have to step into the discomfort of something new and scary, in order to get to the other side, which is where all their dreams lay.
The truth is in order to create a new life, a new career or even a new persona, we have to sit in the uncomfortable long enough for it to become comfortable. And we will only do that when we have committed to it. Taking action – doing the first step is crucial so that we are motivated to take the second step.
The second step is the investment, whether that is time, money or actually changing. The psychic investment of effort, or money, is what creates the forward momentum that impels us to the future we want, even if it scares us. Until we have some “skin in the game” it is too easy to stay in the “paralysis through analysis” mode.
This is also the reason why it is so important to work with someone – they can see your strengths and potential far easier than you can. They are not burdened with the inner voice that is trying to keep you small and so is effective at sabotaging your efforts.
If we are to build a new life, career or reach any goal, we need to 1) take action, 2) make an investment of time, money or effort and 3) have someone who keeps our vision top of mind for those days or weeks when we get overwhelmed and insecure.
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