Are you Stuck, Frozen, or Afraid?

Sometimes I get in my head when I don't know how to execute a task or project. I'm often frozen in inaction. I'm afraid to take action or make the wrong choice. Frozen. Stuck. Afraid. 

Are you the type of person that is afraid of taking action on something you are not sure how to execute? Are you worried if your efforts will work out? Are you frozen and afraid to take action? Are you concerned about how you will look if your actions and choices are the wrong ones? 

I have accomplished a lot in my life and will continue to achieve a lot because I say so. However, often I get stuck, frozen, and afraid to take action or make a choice. I don't want to look stupid. I never learned that mistakes are part of the learning journey; in my eyes, they were terrible.

This is an old wound that likes to resurface its head when I am working on something that stretches my abilities, and these thoughts are no longer needed. It stems from a young John that didn't always have the correct answer in class or didn't get things right away. I thought, felt and knew I was stupid and would collect evidence that it was true, "John is dumb!" I know it's not true, but I didn't realise that growing up. I thought I was stupid, and I would do or say things that proved this judgement of myself. I also notice that I have this feeling like I don't want to put all this effort into this task or project and have it be all wrong. Making mistakes was terrible and wrong in my eyes, and it never occurred as a learning opportunity. 

What I know now is that it's ok to be concerned for the outcome of the task or project I am working on, but don't let it stop me from doing my important work, work that needs to be done and work that is saving-peoples lives. I know that making mistakes is just part of the learning process, and I'm just ruling out what doesn't work. 

When I am responsible for putting aside those negative thoughts, it's easier to take the actions or make the choices I need to make to move my project forward. With a responsibility mindset, I can achieve whatever I set my mind to and keep taking actions that are consistent with the future happening.

So next time you have that same thought or feeling that freezes you in inaction, thank it for showing up and put it aside as you know you can do the task or project. There is no need to engage with that internal voice from a younger scared version of you. Remember this simple rule; you alone are responsible for your future. So take action and make choices that are consistent with that future happening. Be excited about the future you create because you can make it happen. 

Also, follow me as I will be putting together a virtually-delivered program for those that want a little more support and development in this area. Finally, sign up for my newsletter to be among the first to know of the new program. 

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