21 Nov Iron Sharpens Iron
Who we surround ourselves with can significantly impact our lives, making it important to cultivate relationships with people who are like-minded.
And like-minded does not mean you have to share the same dreams and goals (professionally or personally) … it’s about valuing growth and wanting to evolve into the best version of yourself.
I was raised in the restaurant business and fondly recall my grandfather (a successful restauranteur) often stating, “We’re only as good as our last meal.” We were taught to constantly better our best!
Iron Sharpens Iron
I was recently speaking to a dynamic group of women who were excited to begin their next chapter, reinventing their lives professionally and personally.
Several women had the same question:
Should we share our goals and dreams with everyone?
I said, “Be cautious. Be very protective of your dreams, like you would anything that has tremendous value for you.”
Some attendees looked at me quizzically, asking why we have to be so cautious?
We have to be cognizant of the fact that not everyone is on the same path.
Again, that does not mean we need to have the same goals. We all have different dreams and skill sets and it is natural to want to do different things. But it is beneficial if your circle includes like-minded individuals who want to evolve and better their best.
Be mindful of who you share your vision with. Others may cast doubt, not because you won’t succeed, but often because they cannot see themselves moving forward and reinventing themselves.
The last 20 months have amplified that change is inevitable and reinvention is a vital part of navigating that change to move forward.
And reinvention does not have to be a huge, life-altering experience that turns your world upside down. Adding a new habit or making a change in routine can also lead to a reinvention in some form. Of course, it could be a major shift, like a whole new career. The choice is always yours.
And again, when you share your plans and goals for the next chapter, some people may cast doubt onto you, giving a myriad of reasons why it won’t work. It does not mean your goals aren’t valid.
I was speaking with an entrepreneur who was so excited to start her own business, to be of service, and make money. She was organized and thorough in doing her homework (researching all that was required to get her business off the ground). She shared her idea with some family and friends who immediately started poking holes in it.
That it will never work.
Where are you going to find clients?
No one will ever pay you for that.
You could see her physically shrink down as she recalled their words. This entrepreneur immediately began doubting herself. Can I really do this? Should I even attempt to go after my dream?
Now, it’s OK if someone doesn’t believe in your dreams. They could just be projecting their own limiting beliefs onto you. Many people want more company in the proverbial “comfort zone.” But, don’t let them continue to rent space in your head, even after they are gone.
Your yes to your dream must be bigger than their no.
Your dreams! Your Life! Your Way!
Seek out those individuals who are also growth-oriented and will cheer you on as you strive to achieve goals.
Iron Sharpens Iron