Have you ever held yourself back from chasing after your goals because of what people around you might think? Well, I’m here to tell you that you’re not alone. Fear is one of, if not the biggest obstacle we must overcome within our journey of personal growth. It’s something used to keep us in place and act smaller than we really want to be. But ask yourself-who benefits from you playing small?

Message of the day:

1. The Fear of Standing Out

For years I’ve conformed to the ideologies of people around me. I never really stepped out of my comfort zone and never really wanted to stand out. I was always following the crowd and in turn I was a shell of myself. I was purposefully shrinking myself to avoid the judgement of others. Despite having the dream of one day making an impact on the world and standing out, I always had these negative thoughts in my mind. I thought to myself:

• “What will they think of me?”

• “They’re just gonna make fun of me.”

• “What if nobody likes me anymore?”

If this sounds like you, know that there is a way to break through. I too was thinking these things every single day and simply did what was “acceptable” to everyone around me. I tried convincing myself that I was fine following the crowd and that my dreams were simply unattainable. However, I knew deep down that I just was diluting my mind for the sake of others around me.

2. Why You Can’t Let Fear Dictate Your Life

The truth is: people will always judge you either way. Whether you choose to go the safe route or you choose to chase your big goals, there will always be someone who has negative opinions about you. Internally, you just have to decide whether you are willing to sacrifice your own future just to avoid a couple raised eyebrows today.

In my experience when I finally decided to step out of my comfort zone, there were two things I realized:

1. The people who aren’t supportive of you never really wanted to see you do well. They’ll unfollow you, laugh at you, and talk bad about you. But that’s life.

2. The people who do support you are those who always wanted to see you win and will always be there for you. They’ll show never ending support and constantly reassure you that you are doing the right thing.

The world is full of people who will never take risks and always conform to the societal norm. And you know deep down you don’t want to be like everyone else, so don't let their fears become yours or else you’ll never break free.

3. Growth Required Discomfort

Once deciding that you are serious about chasing your goals and not conforming to the societal norms, you will face discomfort. But you have to understand that in order to grow and discover a new life for you, being uncomfortable is a requirement.

There’s a common misconceptions that success should feel good all the time, but the reality of it is, nothing great comes easy. It requires you to stretch beyond what you already know, and step into a whole new light. And it’s having the mindset that discomfort equals growth that will help you break through those situations. Whether it be outgrowing relationships, facing criticism, long work days, and so much more, these are all requisites for success. And in turn, once you get through all these dark days you will become a much better version of you.

Remember, that success isn’t about waiting until your fearless to start, but acting despite the fear. The discomfort you may be feeling now or when you start will be a clear indicator that you’re on the right track.

4. How to Stop Playing Small (Practical Steps)

Now that you some what understand the mindset of how to stop acting small, I want to give you some actionable steps to help you truly get out of your comfort zone.

1. Identify where you’re holding back. Is it starting a business? Quitting your job? Leaving that relationship? Whatever it may be, identify it.

2. Challenge the fear. Ask yourself: “What’s the worst that can actually happen?” More often than not, the consequences we imagine are far worse than the reality of what would happen.

3. Take a small but bold step. Now you don’t have to completely turn your life around and move across the country, but take that small step today. Whatever it may be, do something that will push you forward.

4. Reframe discomfort as growth. Understand that if it is uncomfortable, you’re making progress (growing).

5. Remind yourself: Their comfort is not your responsibility. If your growth makes someone uneasy, who cares-it’s their problem-not yours.

Main Takeaways: Your Dreams > Their Comfort

If you’ve been waiting for that sign to completely change your life and chase after your goals, this is it.

Start the business, leave the relationship, quit the job. Whatever it may be just go for it. Stop making yourself seem smaller than you are for the sake of those around you.

Remember, their comfort is not worth your dreams.

P.S If you haven’t already been able to check out my Anime Clip Pack. Here’s a link to access it for completely free. (I’ll be removing it soon so make sure to save it) 👇

As always, I’m wishing you nothing but the best.

Sincerely,

TheMindsetMagnet