The Work Never Stops

The other day something happened, something you can defiantly relate to. A client was late for a session and my mind went straight to the negative, worst outcomes.

• They aren't happy anymore!
• They're going to want a refund!
• The product is total crap!

The default mode for your brain is to go to the negative. For some reason, it's the most easily grasped concept. It's the path of least resistance for your mind to explore. Why do you think the news is always ALERT!! ALERT!!, Negative terrible stories? Because that's what gets your attention. That's what makes you watch and maybe suffer through some commercials as well.

In reality, the situation most likely isn't as bad as you imagine. In my case, they were helping someone out of situation, which caused them to run late to our session. The good news is I'm still a great coach and person LOL! As I'm sure your outcomes were better than the worst-case scenario you dreamed up!

So if all this negativity is nine times out of ten not as bad as you think, why still go there? Why do you still go down the rabbit hole of OMG the world is ending? Here are a couple of reasons why you might be putting too much weight into a particular situation, or client.

All Eggs in One Basket

Be it a client who is responsible for a high percent of your business or your one friend, spouse, pet, whatever...they are your main source of income/security. Just like in investing it's best to diversify. If you have a client that is paying most of your bills, great! Now is the time to go get more clients. Put in the time to get leads and close deals. The best time to expand is when you financially don't absolutely need the revenue. Doing this will ensure you have a stronger safety net under your business and if that huge account goes away you'll still be ok. Now every little hiccup with the large account won't have you breathing into a paper bag to calm down!

Self Confidence (or lack of)

This particular one can come into play especially if you're starting something new in business and/or life. Even though you may have years of experience executing for some other company, this is the first time you've ventured out on your own to provide those services. You may feel like a fraud, which is a crappy feeling. It's almost as if you need someone else to validate you know how to do what you've been crushing for the past 10 years! How do you get past this feeling and realize you truly have everything under control?

Go back into some emails for kudos from co-workers and former bosses. Look on your wall at those awards for excellence you received in your career. Ask your family and friends if they think you're a rock star at your skillset. The answers will be a resounding yes!

But The Work Continues

All that being said and you more secure in business and in your skillset, doubt and negativity still creep in. The thing is to stay aware that this is just a reflex of your brain. The more self-awareness you can deploy against these impulses, the better you'll be able to handle yourself when the negative doomsday thoughts invade your mind. Now you can view them almost like a movie because those scenarios are not reality. It's always better than you think. Diversify your business and have faith in your self, you got this!

No go forth and prosper my friend, and remember opportunity doesn't wait until you're ready! :-)

Coach Brian

www.brianelam.com