Are you tired of letting fear hold you back from pursuing your passions and dreams? Well, fear not! In this blog post, we're going to dive deep into the topic of overcoming the fear of failure and taking bold steps towards your goals. So grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and learn from guest expert, Paola Soares, host of the But First She Failed Podcast.
**This was also a podcast episode (episode #215). If you'd like to listen to this conversation, use the link below.
Embrace Your Inner Dreamer
Do you have a burning passion for starting a pet shop, opening a gym, or even hosting your own podcast? Well, let me tell you, that dream is not a mistake - it's your inner voice calling out to you! Embrace that dream, because it comes from within and it's something worth pursuing.
No matter what your specific dream is, it's there for a reason and it's time to pursue that dream. Maybe you don't immediately leave your 9-to-5 today but you can certainly take small steps to making this a reality for you. Because your dream is unique to you and it would be a disservice to others to not pursue your dream.
There are people out there waiting for what you have to offer!
Learning from Past Experiences In Entrepreneurship & Life
But it's often the fear of failure...or even reflection on previous failure that can keep you from pursuing your dreams of entrepreneurship.
Life is a series of experiences, both good and bad, that shape us into who we are today. Remember, the challenges you've faced and triumphed over can be a valuable source of strength and wisdom. Often, the people we can help the most are the ones we used to be. So, don't discount the power of your past experiences in propelling you into the next chapter of life.
"It's not whether you win or you lose. It's either you win or you learn." - Paola Soares
Winning or Learning (Not Winning or Losing)
One of the biggest game-changers in overcoming the fear of failure is shifting your perspective. Instead of viewing every situation as a win or lose scenario, embrace the mindset that in every situation, you are either winning or learning. This new perspective can be incredibly empowering and liberating, giving you the freedom to try new things without the fear of failure holding you back.
"There's a reason you've gone through a challenge in your life, you know, whatever that looks like. And you've come out on the other side and you've triumphed, ask, right? And now you can look back and everything that you learn, you can help someone."— Paola Soares
The Framework for Embracing Failure and Finding Success In Entrepreneurship
To help entrepreneurs embrace failure, Paola has a framework that she shares to help guide you through. Her framework includes things like:
Identifying your passion
Setting achievable goals
Seeking support
Taking consistent action
If you're finding yourself paralyze with fear today, ask yourself about these things and uncover what you're truly wanting in your life. Once you truly identify your dream and write it out, you'll be more inspired to take action.
Then it's time to find support and accountability. If you're looking for that, I'd love to support you in this part of your journey.
Check out my coaching options >> HERE. I look forward to connecting and working with you!
Overcoming the Fear of Failure
Fear of failure can be paralyzing, regardless of age or experience. It's crucial to acknowledge that pursuing your passions and dreams requires taking risks. Don't let the fear of what others might say or the fear of falling short hold you back. Remember, not taking action can lead to regret and unfulfilled potential. So, take that leap of faith and start living life on your own terms.
"The crazy thing is it can stop people not only, at the age that we're at. Like, I've seen people like in their sixties, and it's very clear that they had these aspirations or they had the they had these goals and dreams inside of them. And they never got to them because of when you boil it down and you really analyze it, it's fear failure." - Paola Soares
"We need to combat because the risk is so high. The risk of not going for the things that you'd love and not doing something passionate about it, you could and I've been there too where it's like, you start becoming a little bit bitter."— Paola Soares
Small Steps Lead To Big Confidence As An Entrepreneur
In order to move through fear, you have to take action instead of waiting for confidence to help you out. Building confidence doesn't happen overnight. It requires taking small steps towards your goals. Whether it's updating your resume, researching opportunities, or starting a side hustle, each action you take builds your confidence and moves you closer to success.
Don't underestimate the power of consistent effort and the ability to look back on your progress.
"It's okay to be meant for more. You know what I mean? Like, you are absolutely who you have to be. You were created the way you were, on purpose and for a purpose, there's, like, something special calling on your life that and everyone has different dreams. There's a reason why everyone has different dreams, right, because we're all different."— Paola Soares
Take Away Message / Action
The time to pursue your dreams is now, my friend. Don't let the fear of failure or the opinions of others hold you back any longer. Embrace your passions, learn from past experiences, shift your perspective, and take small steps towards your goals. As you embark on this journey, remember that not only will you be transforming your own life, but you'll also be inspiring and helping others along the way. So go forth, dream big, and make those dreams a reality!
"Stop hesitating. Go for it!" - Paola Soares
Remember, failure is not the end but a stepping stone towards your ultimate success. Now, get out there and make it happen! Until next time give yourself permission to learn from failure and grace along the way. I'll talk to you soon.
About Paola:
Paola Soares is the Host and Creator of But First, She Failed Podcast, a Top 50 Apple Podcast in Entrepreneurship. But First, She Failed is the first and only podcast that focuses on speaking to trailblazing, inspiring women about their moments of "failure" and how those moments propelled them to where they are today. A former journalist and national news producer that's had stories appear on Univision, Telemundo and ABC News among others. Paola was also a Booker/Segment Producer for Fusion Network where she would be tasked with bringing on celebrities, politicians and newsmakers. While working in news her favorite stories were always profile pieces that helped and inspired. Now she is taking her passion of storytelling and helping women redefine “failure” while gaining clarity and confidence when it comes to their careers and businesses. She is passionate about helping women escape their 9-5 through podcasting. Paola is a Chicago girl that has made Miami home, where she lives with her husband, very active toddler son and new baby daughter!
Paola's Resources:
Paola's website: paolasoares.com
Paola's IG: https://www.instagram.com/butfirstshefailed/
Let's Work Together:
DIY Resilient Business Planning Course: https://www.amandamckinney.com/plan
All podcast episodes: https://pod.link/1473751874
Amanda's Coaching Options: https://www.amandamckinney.com/coaching
Amanda's Book: https://www.amandamckinney.com/book
"Stop hesitating. Go for it!"
— Paola Soares
Let's Work Together!
I help women who stumbled into entrepreneurship, get out of the weeds and create a sustainable, organized business they are proud of and provides the flexibility they desire.
If that's you, let's work together!