The Fear of Putting Yourself "Out There"

Over the last seven months, I’ve experienced many highs and lows. The challenges came and went, but all the while there was one thing that never left my mind. “Eventually, I’ll have to do it. I’ll have to put my podcast and idea out there for everyone to see.” The thoughts kept me up at night many times. What if no one likes it? What if they hear it and judge me? Or worse…what if no one even bothers to listen?

They were feelings I’ve never had before; but every time I’d give into my self-doubt, the gut instinct that I was onto something worthwhile kept me going. It took a good amount of time, but I eventually came to terms with the fact some will not like the podcast or think what I am doing is crazy.

After I fully committed to this project it took me a month to tell anyone what I was creating. Then I decided enough was enough. If I couldn’t verbalize my dreams, then it meant I was still living in self-doubt. I finally mustered up the courage to tell a friend over beers, and it felt amazing to get it off my chest. Challenge one completed. I told someone. The second hurdle (telling my family and closest friends) proved to be more difficult. I had to explain that I was starting a business in an unconventional way that they might not understand.

It was terrifying.

When you tell someone you’re starting a podcast and online business they tend to have a skeptical look and tone. But I persisted. I did my research, I knew the facts, and I had my pitch. By the end of the conversation, I had most people not only convinced but excited. Having said that, there were and still are friends who have their doubts. Rather than letting that get to me, I used it as motivation.

After taking those first steps and working endlessly for months, launch day was finally approaching. This was a very complicated time mentally. On one hand I was ecstatic to get things going, and on the other hand I was terrified. I felt completely exposed. This was something I believed in more than anything. On top of that, I had never worked harder in my life and I was about to share the product with everyone who knows me. But what if all of this wasn’t enough?

I kicked off the launch by releasing three episodes and my website. To the outside world, it’s just a podcast and website. They don’t know the late nights, non-existent social life, and sacrifices I made creating this. Luckily, I know this comes with the territory. When you build something and put it out there, people only see the end product. Some will like it and some won’t, but you have to keep your head down and keep working. What you will find is the most unexpected people will be more supportive than you can imagine. To me, this outweighs all the negatives. Every kind email, text, or call from a friend fuels my fire.

I can genuinely say this is the best thing I’ve done. I don’t know where it will lead me. I’ve put myself in a position to “fail” in front of everybody, but that doesn’t stack up to possibilities of inspiring others if things work out. I know I’ve already succeeded on a personal level by committing and creating this. I’ve connected with amazing people that would have no idea who I am today without taking this chance.

So, my advice? Stop being afraid and put yourself out there. Pursue that one thing that has been in the back of your mind begging you to take a chance. It will be the best decision you’ve ever made.

P.S. Listen to the Unbeaten Path podcast on iTunes or our website!