Even When You’re Scared, Do It Afraid!
Inside Napa’s Mind…
Hello friend,
I know you’re struggling to make up your mind on an important decision that could change the entire course of your life. You see, we all go through these moments. And as usual, fear, ‘what ifs,’ and the thought of other people’s opinions, get in our way.
Pardon me if it seems like my voice is too loud. I just need you to visualize how boring life would be if we had everything handed over to us at birth. Imagine we were given a roadmap or blueprint to direct us in every single area of our lives. I know life could be challenging sometimes, but just picture a life where we don’t have choices and we never need to make decisions because we already know what our future looks like. I doubt you’d prefer such a life. Well, I don't.
Just some days ago, I thought about all the many steps I’ve had to take without seeing the full picture yet. I only trusted the process and decided to walk in the confidence that God doesn’t lead me into situations I am not equipped to handle.
I remember in 1989 when I got rid of the word "impossible" from my vocabulary, that action alone made me feel empowered. Soon after, I fell in love with technology during my fifth grade and decided to study computer science in college, despite my mom's preference for law. Thankfully, I applied and got accepted into the university, even though computer degrees weren't prestigious then. My mom might still hold a grudge, but following my vision was the best choice even though it was so risky because technology wasn’t as popularised as it is today.
Now my friend, let’s be real. From speaking in public to switching careers, relocating, starting a new company/business, getting married, having kids, leaving a job that no longer serves you, and starting all over again, making life decisions could be tough. But when you have a dream or desire, regardless of how big and daunting it may look, I encourage you to explore it. I know you fear failure but not making a decision at all keeps you far away from eventually achieving your dreams.
If you feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to begin, I have a few suggestions for you.
Start by journaling…
Take stock of all your wins, especially those situations that came out positive even when you had doubts. Recognise and acknowledge your fears; don’t disregard or shut out your feelings.
What are the available choices?
Identify the pros and cons of each choice you have. Determine your trade-offs and things you are not willing to compromise on.
Now you need knowledge!
Equip yourself with just enough information to help you take the most critical step. Identify someone you trust who has walked through a similar part and ask them questions.
Stay Strategic.
You must know that planning for the worst-case scenario is great but you need to consciously draw the line between being strategic and operating in fear or always expecting the worst to happen.
I hope you are putting yourself and your future first!
I hope you are doing it anyway, regardless of how scared you are!
I hope you are taking a step even when you don’t have all the resources you need yet and can’t see the full picture!
I hope your confidence and mental fortitude are greater than your anxiety and fear of failure!
I hope you remember that God has not given you a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind.
I love Koryn Hawthorne’s - “Won't He Do It” and it might just be that extra encouragement you need to do it afraid, knowing God’s got you!
Till you hear from me again,
Ka ọ dị!
Inside the Circle
What’s on your mind? Fill out the form below to ask me anything about business, career, leadership, sales, self-improvement, and maybe relationships. Your questions are anonymous and you might just get an answer in my next letter. 😉😉
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Top resources & opportunities
Did you miss the last Built for Balance cohort? You can still access the full presentation titled “Chaos to Control: Build a Second Brain and Become a Productivity Rockstar!” Another Built for Balance session is happening soon; register as an early bird.
Building a B2B SaaS company in the FinTech, AgriTech, or ClimaTech industry? Apply to join the Wise Guys SaaS Accelerator Programme for English-speaking East and West African early-stage startups. Selected startups will receive funding worth €100k. Application deadline: September 7.
This is an opportunity for product managers and leaders to attend THE DIVE 2023, a product leadership conference happening on August 12, 2023. Reserve your spot here. Cheers to continuous professional development!
Creative female business owners between the ages of 18 - 35 can register for the 'Transforming Nigerian Youths Programme', an online training in entrepreneurship skills development organised by the Young Africa Works -Mastercard Foundation, in partnership with the Enterprise Development Centre, Pan-Atlantic University. Register and participate for free.
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