There’s one common theme you’ll see shared amongst successful people — the ability to create their own way.
Why? Because this is the “it factor” that sets the successful apart from the status quo. Society has a way of conditioning us to play small. To do as we’re told, to fear change, and to be satisfied with the bare minimum. This is different from being grateful, by the way. You can be grateful for what you have and still crave growth. In fact, gratitude is a big part of the growth journey!
Back when I was first starting my business, gratitude and growth (and of course some grit) is what got me here today. In those earlier days though, there was a lot of trailblazing to do. A lot of going against the norms. For one, women starting businesses wasn’t as common as it is now. Credit health and education was definitely not part of the cocktail party conversations. And working from my basement versus a fancy office…yeah, I received some side eye glances about that one!
But the funny thing is, what I received so much judgment for 20 years ago, is now widely accepted and sometimes even expected. So let this be a reminder that your vision is valid. Sometimes people can’t see it like you can, simply because they weren’t given the sight for it…you were. What’s most important is that you stay true to that vision in your heart. It’s not always easy, but it’s most certainly worth it.
Here are some tips that will help you stay in your lane as you disrupt the status quo and pursue your dreams…
- Do what you love. It’s that simple, it’s that complex. While it may seem like the easiest thing in the world to do, the truth is it can sometimes come with a side of fear, doubt, and worry. Doing what we love most doesn’t always fall in line with what’s “accepted” or with what makes the most sense. Yet, if I’ve learned anything, it’s that when you do what you love, the money follows. More so than that, happiness does too – and happiness is the richest thing we will ever own (thank you Donald Duck for this reminder!). Therefore, it’s your job to be self-aware and discover this gift inside you. Maybe it’s dormant or maybe it’s raging like wildfire, wherever it is, tap into it. It’s meant for you!
- Do it your way. Unconventional ways are sure to follow a rebellious heart. This is just the way it is for trailblazers. You know how I mentioned earlier that society has a fear of change? You’ll notice that when you start pursuing what you love and putting it into action, people may stay feeling afraid for you. This can come in the form of judgment, criticism, and belittling…trying to fit your dreams inside a conventional box. Be cautious of these (sometimes) well-meaning remarks. You have the intuitive knowledge to know how to bring your dream to life. Don’t be afraid to burn the rule book and do it your way. Your perspective can unleash so many amazing new opportunities!
- Follow your heart to your purpose. Does your dream feel too broad? Mine did at first. I knew I wanted to help people repair credit so they could have a richer quality of life. I knew I wanted to help people never feel ashamed of their past that haunted them through credit reports. But there were so many industries that my services could have supported that it would have been easy to get swept up and lost in the noise. So I had to turn inward and discover the details of who I truly felt called to help and knew I could best support. That’s when I realized I wanted to help prospective homeowners! If you’re unsure what you’re meant to do or who you’re meant to serve, follow your heart to your ideal market. Ask the deeper questions, journal on it, reflect on your own experiences, and test out different waters to get a feel for what lights you up.
- It’s more than service, it’s a solution. The mundane viewpoint sees work as simply a service, a transaction. But successful trailblazers see service as a solution! What problems can you help people solve? What pain can you help people overcome? Operating from this vision really makes the work so much more rewarding. Leading from the heart will never steer you wrong. I know for me, I love taking care of people’s credit reports and finding simple solutions that make a massive impact. I remember how defeated I used to feel receiving poor credit reports and being constantly reminded of all my past financial mistakes that dug up old memories…surely not a motivator! That’s why I’m passionate about keeping my clients in a positive mindset by acting as the liaison. People get results much faster when they’re positively motivated instead of locked in fear.
- Take negative remarks for what they’re worth. I touched on this a little bit above, but it deserves its own section because it truly takes practice. Keep your dreams safeguarded as much as possible. Don’t allow others to derail your spirits with their own doubts. Hear what they have to say, but always take it with a grain of salt. At the end of the day you know what’s best for you and the vision for your life. You’ve got this!
Remember, staying in your lane requires knowing what you want, understanding your industry and purpose, and being willing to pass up the distractions and comments of others who don’t understand or see what you see. You have everything inside you to be happy and successful while bringing your dreams to life. If you need an extra inspirational boost, I encourage you to check out my new book Making It Happen that will support you in doing just that — making it happen!
