Tom is looking forward to taking on a number of significant projects. He is feeling challenged, energized and anxious.
He believes he can handle it. But, he also says feelings of anxiety simmer just below the surface. We talked about the benefits he will gain from these projects, the skills he will strengthen, the opportunities he will have to learn about others and bring them along with him. He knows he will succeed, but he worries about keeping up with all that is expected of him.
We all are our worst critics. And that critic is really good at nurturing fears of not hitting the mark. Instead of allowing it to play in our head, we can replace those belittling thoughts with words that will serve us well.
I suggested Tom say to himself every day: “I am curious and courageous.”
Curiosity and courage work well together. When we approach something with curiosity, we look at it carefully from different angles. We are thoughtful about it and open to what might not be readily evident. Curiosity opens us up to other possibilities, other perspectives. A curious mind can help us get to know a subject, and people, much better.
Thoughts of being courageous bolster our resolve, enable us to ask questions, to propose a different perspective or direction, to take a position and take action.
I am curious and courageous. Say it, see it, feel it. Picture yourself being brave, yet tactful. What do you see? Saying these words to yourself each day, and reflecting on them, can lead to breakthroughs that may surprise you.
