I hope you are in a spirit of readiness, because today, I want to dive deep (yup!) into something that resonates with many of us: the silent battle of self-sabotage, especially when it comes to our careers and professional aspirations.

You can have the best of intentions when setting goals or making decisions but if you aren't aware of how you tend to sabotage those very intentions, then you will likely not get the outcomes you want.

You know, it’s fascinating how we, as humans, are inherently designed to maintain the status quo. A safe home, food, and comfort - these essentials keep us in a loop of contentment.

But it's a universal truth that moving beyond our comfort zones is daunting.Our brains are wired for safety, not risk-taking, which means any step towards growth can feel like an uphill battle.

This internal conflict often manifests itself as self-sabotage, a tricky foe dressed in the armor of rationality and logic.

Consider what happens when this contentment to stay in what’s familiar becomes a barrier to our growth When the familiar warmth of our comfort zone becomes a golden cage that keeps us from reaching new heights in our career or business?

The journey to growth and change is inherently laced with discomfort. It’s like stepping into a cold shower – shocking at first but invigorating once you get used to it.

Our brain, (bless its protective heart), can sometimes misinterpret this discomfort, labeling new opportunities or strategies as threats, hence triggering self-sabotage actions without us even noticing.

Have you ever caught yourself saying, “I’ll do it tomorrow,” or “I’ll wait until I’m ready,”? These are signs of self-sabotage, cloaked in the guise of rationality.

It’s all too easy to postpone investing in ourselves and our leadership and professional development with seemingly logical excuses, waiting for the 'perfect' time. The perfect time …

• when I’m out of debt.

• when I feel more confident.

• when my husband/partner says it's okay.

• when work isn't so busy.

• next year.

• when I'm clear.

• when I'm ready.

• when I have the money.

These may seem like real rational thoughts (and sometimes they are), but often they are just excuses and a way to avoid what we believe may be uncomfortable—growth, change, transformation. All of these require dancing in the discomfort zone (check out this podcast episode I guested onwith that very title!)

So what happens is these moments of waiting turn into a perpetual delay of our growth and impact. The reality is that these “perfect” conditions we set for ourselves often mask deeper fears and resistance to stepping out of our comfort zones.

Today, I want to invite you to take time to examine your self-sabotaging tendencies (with love, compassion and NO Shame), so you learn how to avoid or manage your typical patterns.

Take a moment and reflect on your current goals and aspirations.What decision, choice, or intention have you made lately that you have not acted or followed up on?

Maybe it’s improving your skills through a new course, applying for that dream job, or simply dedicating time to your professional development.

Whatever it is, whatever is important to you that you have not moved forward on, ask yourself WHAT is holding you back. Is it fear, or is it the discomfort of stepping into the unknown?

Then consider, what is more important to you, giving into the fear or taking the uncomfortable step to move forward in your goal? What do you TRULY want? What IS THAT worth to you?

Here's another question for you: When was the last time any growth you experienced came from comfort (gotcha didn’t I 😊!)?

True personal agency is about stepping into the unknown, making decisions not just for personal gain, but for the betterment of others, and embracing the learning that comes with each new challenge.

I understand this journey all too well. In my Unveil Your Brilliance Leadership Elevation Coachingprogram, I guide women like you through these very challenges, helping them recognize and overcome their self-sabotaging habits to achieve a more fulfilling career, greater influence and an impact that transforms lives and communities.

Remember,self-sabotage is a narrative we tell ourselves, not an irrefutable truth. Changing that narrative is the first step toward your evolution as a leader.

In my work with professional women, I’ve seen time and again the transformative power of confronting and overcoming these self-imposed barriers.

My coaching is designed to guide you through these very challenges, offering the tools and support needed to transition from self-doubt to self-assurance, from a tentative, playing-it-safe leader to a bold, confident, and unapologetic one!

If you're ready to break the cycle of self-sabotage and step into your full brilliance as a leader,I invite you to explore how we can partner together. With my support, you can forge a path toward leadership that not only elevates your career but also sets a powerful example for women in your sphere and beyond.

Your journey starts with a single, albeit uncomfortable, step forward. Are you ready to take it?Let’s talk about it!

Remember this:Your dreams are valid. Your aspirations are worthy. And investing in yourself isn't just okay—it's essential for your growth and evolution as a leader.

Here’s to embracing discomfort, for it is the dance floor of growth and transformation 💃.

Natalie
The Brilliance Unveiler 

Upcoming Women’s Circle Event - May 21st

Come and join me at my next WCC event which will be held on May 21st, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Maryland Innovation Center, and it will be about—visibility!!

The event titled Visibility Unveiled: Stepping Up and Standing Out in Your Arena is going to be about how we harness our platforms, perspectives, and privileges to ignite change in our spheres of influence.

Register today for May’s WCC and sign up for a very special experience. For more information, watch this video.

Are you excited to join me?
REGISTER HERE