This pandemic has taught us a lot about ourselves, whether we like it or not. It’s forced us to examine our current lives, relationships, goals, and careers. And in some instances, what we’ve observed may not necessarily align with the vision we initially had for ourselves.
Over these past few months, I’ve seen and had conversations with a number of people looking to make change. It’s become clear that a lot of our employers are not as loyal as we’d hoped, and our positions may not always be guaranteed. So, some folks have been feeling that itch. The itch to pursue the things they actually want to do.
If you’ve been reading my blog for some time, you know I’m a firm believer in taking a leap of faith to do what it is you desire. And to get what it is you deserve. Which of course isn’t always easy and can be extremely scary. But the truth is, a lot of people have found success doing things they were intimidated or afraid of at first. That eventually led them to the fulfillment they had always been seeking.
So, as we transition to the fall season, and have had the time to really marinate on the fact that change may be necessary, I decided to share some motivation to help you take that leap of faith:
Your plan doesn’t need to be fully fleshed out.
Trust me, it’s better to have an idea and get started, than it is to waste time planning and prepping, without actually doing. We often think we need to have it all figured out before taking a leap, but that isn’t the case. If you have an idea of the direction you’d like to move in, or something you’d be interested in trying—do it! When you walk in the direction of your purpose, things fall into place. You may have some twists and turns, but it’s important to at least embark on the journey.
You deserve a life that fulfills you.
Wanting more isn’t wrong. Yes, it’s important to be grateful and joyous in what you have, but it’s also important to understand that, that doesn’t mean you have to settle. You can aspire for an even more full life. When you take a leap of faith, you are telling yourself that you know you deserve it.
A leap of faith isn’t always huge.
Taking that leap can happen in increments, it doesn’t have to be one major life-altering decision. It can also be a series of small steps that accumulate big value along the way. So, that’s updating your resume. Then, looking for new job opportunities. And from there submitting applications, going on interviews—and allowing yourself to see what’s out there. Regaining your confidence.
The fear is normal.
Similar to what I mentioned earlier, most people who take leaps of faith aren’t doing it without fear. Instead they choose to walk with the fear. Change, especially after a lifetime of going in one direction is scary, but that doesn’t make it any less necessary. Know that the fear isn’t going to go away any time soon, so it’s time you decided to just make friends with it so you can get to the next step.
Those who love you, want to see you happy.
It’s also common to worry about how taking a leap of faith, or a drastic pivot will affect your loved ones. But the truth is, how can you show up for them, if you’re unhappy? If you are burning yourself out doing something that makes you miserable, it’ll eventually show on the outside—if it hasn’t already. It’ll effect your relationships, the way you treat others, and the way you carry yourself. When you take a leap of faith in the direction that makes you feel fulfilled, it’ll help you to be a version of yourself that shines light on those in your life. It’ll also inspire the people closest to you to follow their desires as well. Bottom line is, it’s never too late, too big, or out of the box for you to go and get it. You have one beautiful life, and it’s worth spending it in a way that uplifts and satisfies you.
