Many of us (myself included!) miss out on great opportunities in our work because we are scared of something. What are we scared of? That varies for each of us. But I truly believe that for most of us, when we are in a quiet room by ourselves, and we are assured of complete privacy, could softly whisper what it is that holds us back.
My colleague Nancy is a life coach. She says one of the most telling questions she asks her clients (who are usually working with her because they are confused or broken in some way) is, "What is your dirty little secret?" The answers vary. Sometimes, the secret is, "I hate working and really wish I could stay home with my kids but I'm afraid to throw it all away." Sometimes the answer is, "I know titles don't matter, but I will never feel successful until I become a VP."
Her solution for these "dirty little secrets"? Examine them in the light of day, decide if they are at all realistic, and if so, go for it. Conquer and accomplish your goal so that you can release yourself to enjoy life! If they are not realistic, then figure out what the essence of the secret is, and find another way to accomplish it. Obviously, this is not an easy thing to do, but by getting the secrets out in the open, it's easy to take logical, realistic steps towards creating a life that will bring you satisfaction and peace.
As Joseph Campbell said:
"This I believe, is the great Western truth: that each of us is a completely unique creature and that, if we are ever to give any gift to the world, it will have to come our of our own experience and fulfillment of our own potentialities, not someone else's."
Go on say it - what are you afraid of?
What am I afraid of? It varies but guaranteed there is something at any given time on any given day :)
Posted by: Lisa | October 08, 2008 at 06:19 PM