We've all been there—an exciting opportunity presents itself, and despite our initial enthusiasm, we hesitate. We talk ourselves out of it, doubting our credentials, fearing the unknown, and clinging to our comfort zones. I've experienced this firsthand, and it's a common theme in many of the coaching conversations I have with women of color in leadership.
I remember moments when I let opportunities slip through my fingers. Whether it was a chance to lead a new project, pursue a challenging role, or make a bold career move, I found myself paralyzed by self-doubt and fear. Watching someone else step into that space or wondering what might have been can be a tough pill to swallow. The regret of not seizing those moments can linger and weigh heavily on us.
But here's the thing: Opportunity is not just a chance; it's a gift. It's a chance to grow, to push beyond your current boundaries, and to prove to yourself just how capable you are.
Here are some ways to embrace and seize opportunities as they come:
Acknowledge Your Strengths: Reflect on your skills and accomplishments. Recognize that you bring valuable experiences and perspectives to the table, even if you don't check every single box.
Embrace the Uncertainty: It's natural to feel apprehensive about stepping into the unknown. But growth often happens outside of our comfort zones. Embrace the uncertainty as a chance to learn and evolve.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. It's okay to feel scared or uncertain. What's important is how you move forward despite those feelings.
Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to lean on your network. Mentors, peers, and coaches can offer guidance, encouragement, and a different perspective.
Take Action: Instead of letting fear hold you back, take a small step toward the opportunity. This could be updating your resume, having a conversation, or learning something new related to the role.
Reflect on Past Successes: Remember times when you took a risk and succeeded. Use those experiences as motivation to act on new opportunities.
Seizing opportunities isn't always easy, but it's a crucial part of professional growth and fulfillment. Don't let fear or self-doubt stop you from grabbing what's in front of you. The next opportunity might be the one that changes everything for the better. So, take a deep breath, trust yourself, and go for it!
Author, Dr. Debra Y Griffith, CEO, Do Better Executive Coaching
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