Sometimes, I’ve found myself being motivated by fear. “This project is too high stakes and I can’t fail”. “Oh, my god I can’t look bad in this call where there are so many stakeholders. I’ll look like an idiot!.” And while I’m caught up in this narrative, I’m tense and stressed out. In this mindset, I definitely can’t do my best work.

What purpose is this belief serving me?

But if I pause and ask myself, “What purpose does this belief serve?” I begin to see it for what it is—a part of me trying to protect me. Protecting me from failure, from pain. Shielding my ego. But once I acknowledge this, I can shift my mindset. I remind myself that I am safe, that I am capable, and that even if I make a mistake, the consequences are rarely as dire as they seem. From this perspective, I can show up with a different energy—one that allows me to see possibility instead of fear. Instead of asking, “What if I fail?” I can ask, “What if I succeed?”

Take a moment to reflect on your own beliefs and fears. Identify one belief that may be holding you back and ask yourself, “What purpose is this belief serving me?” Shift your perspective and embrace the possibilities that come with facing your fears head-on.