Change is a big, sometimes overwhelming, slightly sticky, wonderfully chaotic mess. The good news is that change often leads to a more dynamic and expansive life. The problem with change is that we often stop short of that success because we become distracted and consumed with fear — fear of the unknown, of judgment or rejection, of failure, and even fear of success itself.

I am uncomfortable. There is change in the air and it’s blowing wildly about. After recently turning 30-something, I have not been able to stop ruminating, deliberating, and processing all the choices I’ve made (or hope to make) in this life. Oh, the possibilities! It’s like trying to carry a big bucket of tree frogs around in a tiny teacup. I am constantly spilling over and hopping about with new ideas and misdirected determination. That, my friends, is the precipice of change! And I imagine that I am not the only one trying to elevate (or even stabilize) my overflowing, messy life when money is tight, energy is low, and decision paralysis exists.

HOW I TRIUMPH OVER MY FEAR…

​Simplify. Nobody needs a bucket of ideas when we are only able to hold a tiny teacup worth of trouble. I try not to take on too much, too fast. (keyword: try) It’s best to focus on the one thing that will produce the best results. Do that one thing until it’s done and then move on to the next one thing.

Set goals. When we lose sight of our goals, we start to wander aimlessly. We waste time doing things we aren’t passionate about with people we don’t connect to in places we don’t enjoy being. Or worse, we settle and gather dust. Consider setting your own S.M.A.R.T. goals or partnering with someone who can help you forge the most direct path to your purpose. I created the #GoalFish journal if you prefer a guided solo practice.

Stop self-sabotage. YOU are responsible for your own success. You ARE worthy of that success. You can be successful NOW. It IS possible. Change isn’t easy, but it doesn’t need to be overly complicated by negative thoughts and unhelpful habits. Identify self-imposed barriers then make a steady effort to change them into something more positive and constructive. Unfortunately, this may require ending toxic relationships and avoiding situations or platforms that amplify comparison.

Be stubborn, yet flexible. I never compromise my core values for the taste of success. It is important for you to decide what success looks like and know which boundaries you are (and are not) willing to cross to get there. Yet, don’t be so focused on the “right way” to reach your goals that you miss out on a back road opportunity to success. Perfectionism is a thief. It steals our time and attention away from the scenic journey of life.

Embrace challenges. Challenges are a part of everyone’s journey — but the fear of adversity doesn’t have to be. When we accept misadventure and mistakes as a part of the process, we are allowing ourselves to learn and grow. It will be uncomfortable at times, but even the prettiest of flowers must work their way through some dirt.

What would you do if you weren’t afraid?