I was in the middle of a conversation with a direct report. Her district was struggling and she was discussing some of the options she had to turn her district around. I sensed fear on her part about trying and failing. It was clear, she was afraid to pick the wrong option. I then asked her, “what would you do if you could not fail?” The conversation eventually led to a clear direction on her part.
In the car, I pondered the question myself. What would I do if I could not fail? Would I try anything different? Would I be doing anything else? This question got me thinking. First, about my life choices, next about my career choices.
When I reflect upon the choices that I have made, I try not to regret any of them. After all, they led me to where I am now and who I am now. In my career, I have always tried to stay out of my comfort zone and develop my skills on a continuous basis. It led me to change paths a few times until eventually, I took on the role of Sales Director. A role that is challenging me to try new things.
Then, I thought of myself as an entrepreneur. In particular, this blog. What would I do differently if I could not fail? The answer was clear in my mind. I would push myself to start that podcast that’s been on the back of my mind. I would put out those leadership videos that I have wanted to make. I was using my new job and responsibilities as an excuse that I lacked time. Really, it was my fear that was stopping me. My fear, to put myself out there on video and on audio.
Here I was coaching someone else, when I needed to coach myself.
What’s the one thing you wanted to do that you haven’t done? And why?
I recently heard a great podcast from Lewis Howes called, “The School of Greatness”. He has a 5 minute Friday series that I always enjoy. The last podcast I heard was titled, “Hope Matters”. Sometimes, things are just a great coincidence. Sometimes, it’s just great timing.
The show lasts about 5 minutes but it is worth the time invested.
“Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.” — Thomas Edison
What would you do if you knew you could not fail?
Now. Go do it.
Our lives can get pretty hectic and it can be easy to get lost in our actions. When we are so focused on what is ahead, we forget to pause, reflect and find ways to energize our minds. These 5-minute motivation posts are meant to give you that recharge. The goal is to give you a 5-minute Vitamin for your mind through quotes, posts and videos. It is also meant to challenge your thinking and inspire you to take action.
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