I’ve had so many conversations about goals and dreams and what’s next lately. I’ve had a harder time answering some of these questions than I’d like. One of the things that I’ve realized is that I’ve done a lot of waiting. Waiting on ideas. Waiting on the right time. Waiting on guidance or inspiration. When I look at some of the big things I want to do with my life, I quickly realize that there’s no reason that I couldn’t be doing some of those things right now.
A few weeks ago, I put out some words on how I’ve chosen to finally give attention and time to my writing. For years, I only spent time on it in the spare moments and I have very little to show from that strategy. It’s been just two weeks since this commitment, and I’ve already seen results from the small change. So here’s another dream of mine that I’m choosing to put out into the world. Let’s see what happens.
I want to be a speaker. I want to stand in front of small and large groups and deliver inspiring messages. I’ve kept this dream inside for 10+ years because I didn’t have a plan yet. I’ve been waiting to see what my platform is. What will I talk to these people about? I still don’t have the answer to that question, and I’m finally realizing that I might just have to start anyway.
Do you know of a group, small or large, that I could speak to? I don’t have a 5 Step Program to deliver and yet I have a ton of experience in making it work. I can (and probably will) write a book on trauma and overcoming adversity to still make big things happen. I can talk about real life and hard stuff and growing mindsets and doing SOMETHING, even when it’s easier to do nothing. I write, teach, encourage, run my own business, sell and invest in real estate, and have learned a lot lately about money. I’ve been divorced and been through therapy and I now have two bonus kids to love, even though I’m not remarried. I’m caring for an aging parent and working every single day to balance it all and still remain standing at the end. I trust that my experience in any or all of these areas can be used to inspire someone to keep pushing when they don’t really have the energy. I trust that the words I’ve been given will encourage someone along their own journey.
I feel very much like an imposter for offering to speak without being able to say precisely what about. I have learned, however, that there’s immense power in just putting ideas out there and seeing what happens. If you see a place where I could be useful, do reach out. My method for chasing this dream so far has not worked and I think it’s time for a new strategy. That new strategy is that I’m putting this dream of mine out into the world, even though I don’t have a program or a clear plan. I’m speaking it out loud, even though I don’t feel ready. Instead, let’s see what’s born from offering up an unfinished product to the world. Let’s see what’s born from just doing SOMETHING.
For years, when I’ve given myself the freedom to think of my dream life, writing and speaking to encourage people has been at the very core of what I hope to be doing some day. Outside of sharing the occasional blog post, I’ve mostly kept those dreams to myself. I’ve waited for some sort of plan to reveal itself before taking any steps in that direction. Today, I’m deciding to step out, even without a plan.
Maybe you’re part of a group or organization where I might could be of use. Maybe we simply get together a group of women for an inspirational ladies night. Mom groups, divorcees, business women — you name it. I’m open to any and all ideas! My ultimate goal is to try a few things and see what sticks. I would love to test out a few topics and see what resonates most with people. This community is truly one of the best and I can’t think of a better place to do some trial runs. If you have thoughts or you think I can practice on your group, hit me up with your ideas!
Maybe not your core demographic; but I have my girl scout troop of curious young girls that would be happy to have you for a meeting! Maybe we can think of something that makes sense! We do have a ‘Courageous and Strong’ petal to earn! Also I have contacts within CASA whom may be able to set up an in-service for their volunteers. These in-services are usually something to help volunteers working with foster children have a better understanding of relevant things; like dealing with trauma.
These are great ideas! Let’s get coffee soon and talk about options.