I’ve been working on something new lately—something that pushes me far outside my comfort zone. It’s not where I usually operate, and honestly? It makes me nervous. There are moments when I question myself. Where that little voice whispers, “What if you fail?”
But guess what? I’m doing it anyway. Because even if I stumble, even if the outcome isn’t perfect, I know there will be lessons worth carrying forward. I’m confident in my success, yes—but I also trust that failure, if it comes, won’t break me. It will build me. And that got me thinking about you.
Find the full transcript and other resources for women leaders at LivingWhileLeading.com/76.
Do It Scared: Taking Action Even When You’re Not Ready
Where are you holding yourself back because of fear? Maybe you’ve been waiting until you feel ready. Maybe you’ve been overthinking, waiting for the perfect plan, the perfect moment. But you and I both know: fear rarely goes away before you act.
So let me offer you this: do it scared!
Fear can feel so loud. Sometimes it sounds like your own thoughts. Sometimes it echoes the opinions of people around you. Either way, don’t hand it the keys to your future. If you’re scared, it probably means what you’re about to do matters deeply to you.
Redefining Failure as a Step Toward Success
Ask yourself: what’s the worst that happens if I fail? Will that stop you from trying again? Or will it push you toward the second, maybe even the third attempt—the one that carries you to success?
I’ve learned that putting yourself “out there” is the only way you grow. It’s how you get noticed for your expertise. It’s how opportunities find you.
And yes, if you fall, it’s okay to cry your “big-girl” tears. It’s OK to feel the sting. But don’t stay there. Wipe your face, dust yourself off, and rise again.
Fear wants you small. Purpose wants you bold.
Practical Steps to Move Through Fear with Grace
So, name your fear. Take one imperfect step forward. Seek advice from people who believe in your potential, not those projecting their limits onto you. Redefine success so it’s not just about titles or bonuses—but about alignment, impact, and joy.
Most importantly: hold yourself accountable with grace. You don’t need overnight transformation. Just the courage to take the next step.
You are not behind. You are not broken. The vision you hold in your heart is not random, it’s your roadmap.
Your Roadmap to Courage Starts Now
Don’t wait for the day when you feel fearless. That day may never come. Instead, choose to grow into the person who can handle it. Because you can. And when you do, it will change everything.
Do it scared. Do it anyway. Your future self will thank you.
Remember, you’re the solution to claiming what’s important to you!