
Feeling stuck? ME TOO! How I'm getting over it and kicking fear's little hiney
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Let’s get real for a moment. Have you ever been sitting with a project or dream so close to your heart, yet somehow unable to take that first step? I know I have—more times than I’d like to admit.
Fear. That’s what I want to talk about today. Not just any fear, but the kind that stops us in our tracks right when we’re about to do something meaningful. You know the one I’m talking about, right? That heavy, nagging voice in your head that whispers, “What if you fail?” or “What if people judge you?”
The Perfectionist's Paralysis
If you’re anything like me—a recovering perfectionist and former straight-A student—you know exactly how fear can sneak in, disguised as “doing things the right way.” It’s that little voice that says, “What if you mess up?” or “What if someone doesn’t like it?”
Here’s the kicker: in our quest to be perfect, we often miss the most important thing—doing it our way. The truth? There is no “right” way, only your way. And that’s what makes it magic.
The Faces of Fear
Through my own journey, I’ve noticed fear has a way of showing up in sneaky forms. Let’s break it down:
1. The Fear of Doing It Wrong
This one hits close to home, doesn’t it? We get so caught up in finding the “perfect” method that we forget to just be ourselves.
Here’s a reminder: anyone you admire didn’t get where they are by being perfect. They got there by being authentic—messy mistakes and all. Being human means screwing up sometimes. That’s how we learn.
2. The Fear of Vulnerability
Admitting what we really want can feel terrifying. Whether it’s dreaming of a new career, wanting a better relationship, or growing into the best version of yourself, vulnerability is scary.
But here’s the thing: vulnerability is where real connection happens. It’s where we find our people, our purpose, and our power.
3. The Fear of Discovering Limitations
Ever avoid chasing a dream because you’re scared you might not be good enough? Same. What if I’m not the next bestselling author? What if my voice isn’t as amazing as I hope?
It’s tough, but here’s what I’ve learned: even if you’re not “the best” (whatever that even means), the act of trying and growing is what matters.
4. The Underlying Fear: "I'm Not Enough"
At the core of all these fears is that sneaky little thought: “I’m not enough.” But let me remind you of something so important—you are inherently enough, just as you are. Full stop. No achievements, no gold stars needed.
Shifting from Fear to Curiosity
Here’s a game-changer: instead of asking, “What if I fail?” try asking, “I wonder what could happen if…?”
- I'm curious to see what happens if I write for 10 minutes.
- I'm curious to see what happens if I have that honest conversation.
- I'm curious to see what happens if I take one tiny step forward.
Curiosity turns fear into possibility. It’s not about being fearless—it’s about taking the next step even when you’re scared.
Making Decisions from Love, Not Fear
Here’s a little trick that’s helped me: when faced with a tough decision, ask yourself, “Am I doing this out of fear or out of love?”
A fear-based choice sounds like, “I can’t do this because something might go wrong.”
A love-based choice sounds like, “I care about myself enough to give this a shot, to create space to explore and grow.”
Your Invitation to Authenticity
Here’s the bottom line: you are enough. Right now. Just as you are. Those dreams? Those whispers of “what if?” They matter. You matter. And you deserve to pursue them—imperfections and all.
So, here’s your challenge: take one tiny, curious step today. Just one. Write the first sentence, make the phone call, or simply sit with the possibility of what could be. Those small, imperfect steps? They add up. And before you know it, you’ll be standing in a place you once only dreamed of.
You’re perfectly imperfect—and that is your superpower.