Everyone I have ever talked to that is a leader has had to come face to face with their fears.
I have had to as well. I want to share with you some of the techniques that I have used to face them. The first step is not to be in denial. You have fears even if you don’t readily acknowledge them. They sometimes take the form of that chatter in the back of your head that says you can’t do it. Fear is such a huge issue preventing people from becoming leaders.
Here are some of the techniques I have used and have learned them from the leaders I know:
Think about what you do want
When you find yourself spinning the wheels in your mind over and again about your worst case scenario, turn it around and focus on what you DO want. Visualize yourself getting what you do want. See the new office. See yourself talking to a sponsor as they become a part of your network and leverage to your new position.
Change the voice
When you hear yourself telling you that you’re not good enough – you’re going to fail, turn to a positive mantra of “I am smart. I am worthy. I am enough to land this position.” Find ways to encourage yourself and keep going.
Voice your fears to a trusted friend or coach
Hopefully you have been able to find some level of support from at least one other leader. You need some kind of support network from your colleagues or mentors that you can talk to. Some people may tell you they think it’s silly you would have such a dream, because you’re not good enough or you’re on the wrong path. Don’t look for support from those people who doubt you as they will only hold you back. Surround yourself with people who believe you will succeed.
Have a personal development library
I draw tremendous support from my library. It is filled with how to resources on a wide-variety of leadership topics. If you email me about something you’re working on, I’m happy to look through my library and share what I have on the topic.
I like to tell my clients that they should be sure fear is in the passenger seat and ambition is in the driver seat. Sometimes fear screams the whole ride – just don’t ever let it drive.
Work with me
I regularly face my fears and take the action anyway, because I have learned not to cower to my fears. If you need a partner to help you overcome your fears, click here to talk about how I can help.