Guest Post by: Tumi Frazier, founder of Tumi Frazier International
Have you ever been scared, not because you are in a life threatening situation, but because you are about to make a radical change in your life by taking on a huge business risk or starting a new project? The fear I’m referring to here is the one that is not debilitating, but rather keeps you on your toes and propels you towards your goals.
Always remember that fear is an emotion we all experience from time to time when we think we are embarking on something that might cause us pain in some way. We may be scared to fail, scared to be ridiculed, scared to lose money or even our credibility. Sometimes we are scared to even negotiate salaries, fees or payment terms with our clients hence men negotiate at a higher rate than women do. In fact, one young lady shared with me that she was scared to speak to her manager about a salary raise because she feared being fired. Now, think about this for a second, this is a highly competent and sought after professional who adds tremendous value to her organization. Do you really think she’d be fired for negotiating her raise?
While fear can protect us from dangerous situations; it can also prevent us from achieving incredible things. Fear often holds women back from starting businesses or embarking on risky projects. It prevents us from taking actions necessary to transform our businesses and lives in general. So, a little bit of fear is necessary to build confidence, courage and test our abilities.
Note, risk and fear are important for business and personal growth; so we need to acknowledge it, feel it, but act in spite of it.
I’m terrified by what I’m about to embark on in 2017; a new business venture in Utah, a state that is completely unfamiliar to me in the United States. Moreover, the venture stems from a very big vision I have which is not impossible but daunting to even think about. So, what if it doesn’t work out? Well, that will not be the end of the world and I am certain I would walk away with some life and business lessons.
The key is the - I have to put everything into this project; it may leave me broke or in debt but I have to give it my all. I have no other option but to succeed! I have to approach it like my life depends on it; in fact, my life does depend on it like the very air that I breathe. This perspective will enable me to be creative and tenacious when I encounter obstacles along the way.
Setting your vision in motion requires tremendous courage. It is scary to be vulnerable by putting yourself and your vision on display for the world to see and scrutinize. You will certainly encounter critics along the way; those who may only have negative things to say about you or your business. The reality is that your offering may not appeal to everyone and you need to be OK with that as there will be people who will appreciate what you have to offer.
So, whatever you do, just don’t let people’s opinions define or deter you from achieving your vision. Use fear as your motivator and the fire you need to propel you to greater heights.
Tumi Frazier is a South African entrepreneur, professional speaker, author, TV personality, consultant, and founder of Tumi Frazier International, Tumi Leadership Academy, and Tumi Foundation. Tumi is an internationally acclaimed Leadership and Change Management expert who has worked with high profile clients and organizations across Africa, United States and Europe. Tumi has authored 4 books: Courageous Stories of Inspiration; In the Midst of the Storm; Stepping Stones to Success; and Your Moment. Follow Tumi Twitter | LinkedIn
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