Savor the doubt and frustration

Trust that you are on the path for your growth. 

Do you sometimes wonder if you are on the right path?

Well, I had a turning- point- moment in my journey this week. I had prepared to get some work done while out- of-state on a business trip with my current employer. I wanted to use my alone time wisely. I took all of the necessary papers and resources that I needed. Early morning and in the evening, I would work on my business. 

On Tuesday, my first day out-of-state, I was feeling pretty excited about being able to focus on my business. However, on Wednesday, I was feeling doubtful and discouraged.  I have been sleep-deprived for approximately 6 years. Since my pregnancy in 2011, I have not had a full night’s rest of sleep.  All I could think about was sleeping and how I might fail at entrepreneurship. I wanted to just get  underneath the covers- under the bed, if I could.   Yes…sleep deprivation sounded like a good excuse….I knew that I would later regret not achieving my goals for the week…at least most of them.

I was feeling discouraged and doubtful about my business and productivity. I started wondering if all of this work was worth it. Is it worth it to pursue entrepreneurship? Am I on the right track?  Then, I thought about Abraham Lincoln and a favorite quote of his … I am paraphrasing it now…decide what it is you want to do and know that it can be done….

I did not run away from the negative emotions/ feelings. I let myself feel the emotions for a while…I needed to know what I was up against. I do not need to waste time being in dreamland. My emotions/feelings are as real as they get. I also knew I could not stay in the same state too long……

I thought that the only way to get out of this slump of self-doubt is action…so I got busy and started on my to-do list.  The work will not get done unless we do it. 

Then, the next morning, my brother sent me a video to watch. The message was right on time. After watching the video, I felt encouraged and inspired. I did not want to give up. Why should I? 

It seems as though that all this week, little gifts of encouragement, empowerment, inspiration came in all direction and forms, even from my current employer. All businesses take risks….at some point in their lives, many of these business founders were doubtful and discouraged, but they did not give up. 

I feel like I have to move forward with my dream. There is no other way. Entrepreneurs take risks in some form…the risks I take will help me to be my best self and encourage my kids and others to do the same. 

I learned a lot this week about faith, integrity, and perseverance from past presidents, motivational leaders, and other entrepreneurs. I want to know deep in my bones that giving up is not an option. Grit is my middle name…( not really). So, what have I learned?

1. Do not be afraid of taking risks.

2. When we take risks, we open the door to possibilities.

3. Try to strategize your risks as much as possible.

4. Quiet time is essential to your purpose and vision. 

5. We all have doubts and moments of despair…According to our history, many great leaders, including Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King, Mother Teresa, my mom, my teacher, and others. 

6. Action is the best treatment for doubt and despair…..make a to-do list and follow it.

7. Do not give up!
Enjoy your day!

Timika