Today’s post is from guest blogger Emily Storey.
Last week, my life coach, Laurel, offered me a dare: write a guest blog post for her website. 
As is the case in life, I had a choice. I could say, “Hell no. And, by the way, you’re fired.” Or I could say, “Sure, I’ll give it a try.” Clearly, I chose the latter. But as I sat down at my computer to write my first blog post, I became panic-stricken.
How did I get myself into this very uncomfortable situation?
I began working with Laurel to find my life’s purpose and to translate that knowledge into a new career. We played with the idea that I could become a freelance writer and blogger. At first, this seemed like a great idea. It would give me the freedom to research and explore topics I’m passionate about, provide me with flexibility to take time off to spend with friends and family, and allow me to interact with people in a fun and interesting way.
And then the fear set in…
As excited as I was about this potential career choice, my internal voice screamed out all the reasons why I could never be a writer: “Nobody cares what I think. No one will read my blog. Oh my God, what if my parents read my blog? I’ll have to censor everything I write so that my blog stands up to parental approval!” Quite simply, I was afraid of being rejected by my family, and even perfect strangers.
Questioning my beliefs
Laurel challenged me to question if my beliefs about becoming a writer were really true. Did I know for certain that no one would read my blog, or that my parents would be horrified by what I wrote? The truth is, I don’t know because I’ve never tried. Well, I’m pretty sure my parents won’t reject me. At least I’m 99% sure about that, so I’m willing to take the risk.
Choosing action over fear
So here I am. I had a choice and, in this case, I chose action. I chose to do something, to try it out and see what happens, to ignore my fearful inner voice. I chose to believe that the world would keep on spinning and that my self-esteem would remain reasonably intact, even if I fail at writing a blog post.
For me, it helps to surround myself with people, like Laurel, who make me challenge my assumptions and gently nudge me outside of my comfort zone, even if it’s baby steps, like writing one blog post.
What strategies do you use to overcome that nagging inner voice that seems programmed to choose fear over bravery? How do you find your courage?
Emily Storey is a freelance blogger on a life-long journey to discover happiness in everyday life.
Emily,
I’m glad that you heard those negative voices, but wrote anyway. Once you’ve established your blog, let us know… I’d love to read more.
Hi Phyllis,
I’ll definitely let Laurel know once I’ve established my blog. Thank you for the encouragement.
Emily,
That’s a great start. Writing is one of those things, like learning a sport or a new skill, that you can read, talk about and think about, and eventually just do. You’re allowed as many drafts as you need to get it right. It is never perfect, but at least you have produced something that you used only to manage to do in your dreams.
Just find your self a comfy place to sit and work, and sit down and do it! Keep it coming!
Julie B.
Hi Julie,
Absolutely, I’ll need to create a nice comfy workspace to continue writing. Thank you for the advice. Like you said, writing is like a sport and I intent to keep practicing!
Emily
Emily:
Great start! I’m glad that you have a life coach that can help you to find your way in life. I wish I had had one back 25 years ago! It’s taken me that long to find my way.
Keep up the good work – you WILL get wher you need to go!
Curt
Thank you for your words of encouragement, Curt. I find having someone in my life, such as a life coach or some other good friend, helps me to face my fears by encouraging me to step outside of my comfort zone. And I’m glad to hear that you’ve found your way in life, even if it took a while to realize.
Emily