The best piece of advice I got last year was to stop worrying about being embarrassed. Easier said than done. I’ve spent a good chunk of my life caring deeply about what others think of me. It wasn’t until recently that I truly realized what a waste of time that was. There is so much untapped potential in the world because people never take risks and they are afraid of embarrassing themselves. How many times have you thought about doing something but quickly decided against it because you thought other people would make fun of you?
We are absolutely consumed with appearances and other people’s opinions; we have become paralyzed. I have read countless self- help books and listened to hours of interviews with high performers. A constant throughout all the content I’ve consumed is to stop worrying about what others think of you. Whatever “it” is that you’ve been debating whether to do, decide to start now. Start fast and pivot as you go. Nothing is going to be perfect at first. Perfection is the enemy of progress. You just have to start and learn from your mistakes. People are going to make fun of you, judge you and talk shit about you. Who cares? What is the worst thing that could happen? Time is going to pass whether you decide to follow through with your goals or not, why not try? You won’t always be successful, but you’ll never know if you don’t try. The world needs people to try, you were put on the earth to do something incredible, and the world needs your talents.
1. Stop getting in your own way. There is so much stuff we feel we need to do to get started. All you need is a willingness to start.
2. No one really cares what you do. Everyone is so focused on themselves to even notice you.
3. Don’t do something just to make money. Start doing what you are passionate about and don’t even think about making money from it. If you are truly passionate about something and are committed to working hard on it, the money will come eventually.
4. Treat “it” like a job. Take yourself seriously.
5. Speak about “it” with pride and self-confidence.
6. Do not downplay your talents. If you start painting, call yourself a painter…because its true!
7. Live like you already are a professional at “it”. Live exactly like the person you want to be.
8. Be delusional when it comes to how much you believe in yourself. Be your own cheerleader.
9. Practice “it” every day. Steven Pressfield says the difference between a novice and a pro is showing up to work every day, not just when inspiration strikes. Do whatever “it” is, even when it’s not good.
10. Motivation is a myth. Do not stop just because you do not feel motivated. Sometimes the best work comes out of our most unmotivated days.