We’ve all heard it before, with great risk comes great reward. And you know what else comes along with great risk? Fear..anxiety..the possibility of failure, embarrassment, and mistakes. Taking a risk is uncomfortable and scary, but there’s nothing scarier than staying in the same exact place for too long. If any of you are like me, and don’t like to try new things unless you’re totally prepared and there’s about a zero chance of failing.. keep reading.
Whether you’re planning a new business venture, changing your major, moving to a new city, ending a bad relationship, or quitting your job, the first step is always the hardest part. You’ve most likely been planning and complaining talking about making changes for months but haven’t walked the walk one bit.
We tend to always look at the end result. We assume successful people just got lucky or caught a break. We think celebrities are all just naturally talented and can do things we can’t. We worry about working hard for something that never ends up taking off. What if this is the wrong decision? What if people talk behind my back? What if this makes me unhappy? What if, what if, what if. Amy Poehler’s quote really hit home for me:
Yes, I was scared out of my mind to start a blog. I knew there would probably be people talking about me behind my back. I knew the hours of (unpaid) work I put in would take up a huge chunk of my time. I knew it could potentially be really embarrassing if it failed and literally everyone I knew would know about it. But, that was ok with me. Because I always played it safe and did things people expected me to do, and I wanted to step outside my comfort zone and try something I usually wouldn’t. I’m not saying starting a blog is some huge risk, but it has definitely taught me so many lessons about putting myself out there, taking risks, and hard work. Here are 3 things to keep in mind when venturing outside your comfort zone:
1. Think about what you want to accomplish and make a list of how you’re going to get there.
Write down realistic steps to take in order to get to where you want to be. Hang it above your desk or by your computer, somewhere you’ll see it every morning and keep it there until every line is checked off. Do not get stuck in one place!
2. Ignore your negative thoughts and other people’s opinions
I usually talk myself in and out of something 5 times before I make a decision. This will drive you crazy. Be positive, be your own cheerleader, and find a good support system.
3. Have grit + make things happen.
Most people just sit around waiting for things to happen to them or for opportunities to fall into their lap. Ask questions! Send e-mails, schedule networking coffee dates, gain knowledge, do you research, don’t be afraid of failure or embarrassment! Do you think Beyonce is afraid of failure or embarrassment??
Are you stuck in-between two tough decisions rights now? Are you wanting to pursue your passions but nervous about leaving your job? Thinking about taking a risk but too scared to pull the trigger? Just keep in mind that you’ll never know what’s out there for you unless you’re willing to go find it. The worst thing that could happen is that you fail and you learn, and you move on with valuable lessons you gained the from experience. What are some of the most rewarding risks you’ve taken in the past? Was it worth it?
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Olivia, I found your blog & instagram several weeks ago & I have been reading along ever since! I love your style & I loves posts like these. You are so inspiring, thank you so much for sharing, I needed to read this post tonight!!
XO
Devon Alana
http://www.devonalanadesign.com
XOXOXOOXOX
I'm so glad you found me! Yay 🙂 Just looked at your blog too, you're adorable! Thanks for reading Devon, and I'm glad it helped!
This is so relevant to my life right now!! Attempting to believe that graduating from college can happen for me as planned despite all of the obstacles, beyond ready to start my life. Newly obsessed with your blog, you're the cutest ever! And also obsessed with the fact that you cheered for Kentucky! (just ended my 15 year cheerleading career) Thanks for sharing this post, can't wait to read more!
xoxox
Allie
Hi Allie! Seriously, the graduation stage is SO weird, but also so exciting – good luck and congrats! I'm so happy you're reading my blog and ending a log cheer career like that is definitely a transition! Have a great weekend 😉
Awesome post, Oliva! I couldn't agree with you more. Blogging was something I always wanted to do, yet I was too afraid to start. One night last month, I decided to branch out, to put myself out of my comfort zone. After two posts, that fear came over me again.
Thank you for making me realize that I just need to go for it, no matter what happens! 🙂
I would love to write a post and give you a huge shoutout for inspiring me to continue!
Best,
Lucy (fellow Wildcat)
http://www.cornerdelucy.com
Such a great post!! I completely understand how you felt about starting your blog. I went through the same thing. I actually took a little break from blogging at one point because I was embarrassed. Like you said in your post, even if I tried and failed it would be okay with me.. so I started back up and I'm so glad I did! I love your blog and posts like these. Keep it up! 🙂
xoxo
Alexis
http://www.alwaysinpearls.com
Hi Lucy!
Ya blogging is definitely scary.. you're putting yourself out there for people to criticize everything you say/do, but if it's something you love doing then it really doesn't matter what people think! Thanks so much for following 🙂
Thanks Alexis! It's so worth it no matter what you decide to pursue in the future, keep it up girl friend 🙂