The Secret to Success Lies in the Work

Hi there, my LinkedIn fam!?

Welcome back to our Grassdoor Gems , your monthly dose of inspiration, insights, and practical wisdom designed to help creators, entrepreneurs, and corporate leaders like yourselves embark on a journey of self-discovery and success with a whole-istic approach. In this fifth edition of our Becoming Made Whole series, I share actionable gems, resources, and best practices to elevate your life and career.

In previous editions, I introduced my AWAKEN framework, a transformative process that guides you through the stages of Awareness, Work It, Alignment, Knowledge, Embrace, and Navigate. Each phase is designed to help you become whole—personally and professionally- creating the foundation and pathway for thriving. Today, we're diving into the second phase: Work It! (Always said like Missy Elliot!)?

The Power of Working It

"In all labor there is profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty." — Proverbs 14:23

Meaning all work works. There's a transformative power in rolling up your sleeves and getting to work. Whether building a business, developing a new skill, focusing on healing or striving for personal growth, there is no substitute for the work required to accomplish your goals and make your dreams a reality. It prepares us.

This week, during one of my regular Melanin Millionaire Monday Zoom meetings, I noticed a recurring theme amongst my fellow group members: several people have been discouraged during the process of?becoming; becoming?what, you might ask? Becoming the person who can do the thing that will make them successful, wealthy, and able to stay there.

They're often caught in the comparison trap, measuring their progress against others and feeling disheartened by their perceived lack of success. But here's the truth—comparison is the thief of joy and the enemy of progress. Instead of worrying about what others are doing, focusing on your intentions, not the distractions, is crucial. It’s the pathway towards success. Embrace your unique gifts, talents, and experiences, and simply?work it.?

The Work It Principle: Do the Work Till the Work Works for You!

One of the most impactful lessons I've learned comes from one of my mentors, Dr. Myron Golden, who says to do the work till the work works for you. This means that your success isn't instant. And those who achieve it instantly don't typically keep it. It's not about quick wins or overnight success stories. It's about consistent effort, persistence, and faith that the work you put in today will pay off in the future.

So often, we overlook our growth and progress because we're obsessing over the end goal. We don't realize that every small step forward is part of a larger plan. It creates mastery. God is preparing us for what He has already prepared for us. That's why Work It is the second phase in my AWAKEN process—because it works when you work it! ????

Why Working It Matters in Your Journey to Success

• Builds Resilience: The journey to success is rarely smooth. There will be challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt. But you build resilience every time you push through those moments and keep working. This resilience will carry you through the tough times and keep you moving forward.
• Develops Mastery: Mastery isn't about talent; it's about practice. When you consistently put in the work, you hone your skills, deepen your knowledge, and become an expert in your field. This mastery is what sets you apart from the competition.
• Creates Momentum: The more you work, the more momentum you build. Momentum is the key to long-term success because it keeps you moving even when motivation wanes. The compound effect of consistent effort eventually leads to significant results.
• Builds Confidence: There's something incredibly empowering about seeing the fruits of your labor. When you start to see progress—no matter how small—it boosts your confidence and motivates you to keep going. This confidence is what will sustain you through the ups and downs of your journey.

Overcoming Obstacles in the Work It Phase

As mentioned earlier, getting discouraged during the Work It phase is easy, familiar, and common. The comparison trap is real, and the fear of failure can often paralyze us. But remember this: every successful person has faced these same obstacles. What sets them apart is their ability to keep working in the face of adversity.

Here are some strategies to help you stay focused and motivated:

• Set Realistic Goals: Break down your big goals into smaller, manageable tasks. This will help you stay focused and motivated as you achieve each milestone.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Don't wait until you've reached the end goal to celebrate. Acknowledge and celebrate every small victory along the way.
• Seek Support: Surround yourself with a supportive community of like-minded individuals who can encourage you and hold you accountable.
• Practice Gratitude: Focus on what you have achieved rather than what you haven't. Gratitude shifts your perspective and keeps you grounded in the present moment.
• Keep the Faith: Trust that the work you're putting in now will pay off. Have faith that God is preparing you for what He has already prepared for you.

My AWAKEN process's?Work It?phase is about more than just putting in the hours. It's about cultivating resilience, developing mastery, building momentum, and aligning with your purpose. It's about doing the work until the work works for you, and it will work for you.

As you continue your journey to success, remember that every step forward is progress. Every challenge is an opportunity for growth. And every bit of work you put in brings you closer to the life you desire and deserve to live.

Thank you for joining me for this edition of Grassdoor Gems. Stay tuned for next month's edition, where we'll explore the next phase of the AWAKEN process—Alignment.

Ready to Take the Next Step on Your Journey?

If you're feeling stuck, seeking clarity, or needing a strategic plan to elevate your career or business, I'm here to help. As a career and life coach, and business consultant, I specialize in guiding individuals like you through transformative journeys of growth and success. Whether you're looking to realign with your purpose, develop a clear strategy, or simply need guided support to reach your goals, I’m here to walk alongside you.

Don't let uncertainty hold you back. Book a complimentary consultation today, and let’s start crafting a plan that works for you.

Your journey to success begins with a single step—let’s take it together.????????????

Until next time, keep working it—you're closer than you think.

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