How to Get Out of Your Own Way

Half the battle of living the life of your dreams is learning to get out of your own way. During the spring semester of my junior year in college there was only one class that was available that would fulfill my elective requirements and if I didn’t take the class I would need to do another semester of school. Well, I decided to go for it - even if it meant I had to sing in front of people (I am NOT a singer). I don’t think I have ever been so scared in my life! Now whenever I face a challenge I tell myself “I survived singing in front of people, so I can survive anything!” My goal everyday is to do one thing that scares me.

How many times a day do you talk yourself out of something because of the unknown? If you took the time to count I am sure it is more than you think. Think of all the times you ask yourself “what if…” Self-doubt is normal and these feelings of self-doubt are a sign that you are stretching yourself and are growing into a better version of yourself. Next time you ask yourself “what if” use this as your push to challenge yourself, who knows you might be surprised.

If this sounds scary and you’re thinking to yourself it is easier said than done. Here are some ways you can help yourself to get out of your own way:

• The first step to overcoming any challenge is to acknowledge it and face it. Remember whatever you are feeling, it is okay but don’t let your feelings control you.

• We have always heard it is important to set goals but when setting goals you need to make sure they are realistic. The last thing you want to do is set goals that are impossible to reach. It is imperative that you set small achievable goals and work your way up to bigger goals.

• The way you talk to yourself is important and it will fuel your actions. If you find yourself talking down to yourself, you need to challenge that and ask yourself if that is really true and turn it into a positive thought.

• When you find yourself in a rut and feeling down it is time to change your focus and look at your strengths. Look back on everything you have accomplished and use that to lead you in the right direction.

• One of the most important steps you can do to build your confidence is to take action. Self-talk is important to get the foundation built but what you will find the most rewarding is taking action to reach your goals. The only way to do this is to make sure you challenge yourself everyday.

Self-doubt is normal but the more you become conscious of it the more you will be able to challenge your thoughts and build the confidence that is needed to reach and exceed your goals. This advice is not only important for seniors in high school before they venture out in the “real world” but it is advice that anybody can use at any stage of their life.

If you would like some help or know of a high school student who could use a confidence boost and nudge in the right direction, reach out to me at info@atozeducationalconsulting.com or 612.735.1261.