So often we limit ourselves in both business and life with the words, “I Can’t”. We feel unqualified or inexperienced in areas and we hold back because of fear of failure. We don’t want to look bad in front of others, and so we don’t even want to attempt to try something new because of fear.
I remember years ago when we purchased our first home. The thought of decorating an entire house on my own was daunting. Where did I begin? I wasn’t even sure at that time exactly what I liked, and when I compared myself or my taste to others, I became overwhelmed. What if I didn’t do it right? What if it looked bad? What if others hated it? Thinking back, my fears were irrational because really, who cares? If my husband and I liked it that was all that mattered as we were the ones living there.
I compared my abilities with a desire to have a home as beautiful as a spread in a magazine. I wanted serenity, peace and an atmosphere that was lush and inviting. I soon found out that our budget only allowed for some serenity, and that lush was not exactly within our financial reach. I did learn however fun ways to thrift and find amazing deals at antique stores and second hand shops that actually made decorating an adventure. I would set out as if I was on a treasure hunt, searching for just the right piece to finish a room. It became a fun hobby that I now thoroughly enjoy and eventually became good at. A few years back I had a realtor walk through my house and ask who my decorator was. I smiled and told her I did it myself. She encouraged my abilities and said that I could stage houses for a living.
My abilities have grown over the years and my passion for doing it has as well. If I had never overcome my fear of making mistakes, I would have missed out on something that is now a very enjoyable part of my life. Friends and family members ask for help when decorating their homes and I love giving advice or helping them find items to fit their style.
Opportunities like this are all around us. In both our personal and professional lives we can often expand and grow by simply saying yes and taking a chance. Has another position opened up that you really desire to interview for but are afraid because of a lack of experience? Is there a dream you truly want to explore, yet you always make excuses and find reasons why you cannot.
Learning to overcome the “I Cant’s” in life and finding ways to say “I Can” is a powerful beginning to brand new things. You may not know how to use PowerPoint or that new social media platform, but if you are willing to learn, you expand your skillset and grow in the process. Planning, creative thinking and determination are all needed to grow personally and professionally.
For further information on Jennasis & Associates and how we can help you today, click on our website at www.jennasisassociates.com or email us at digitalmarketing@jennasisassociates.com.
