The belief that successful people are always "smooth sailing" is false and isolating. Recognizing that everyone, from CEOs to the unemployed, faces internal struggles provides a sense of shared experience. This comfort helps neutralize a catastrophic or negative mindset by normalizing the challenges you face.
Large, ambitious goals can be paralyzing. Instead, focus on mustering just 10 seconds of courage for a single, critical action, like sending a LinkedIn request or approaching a key person at an event. This micro-commitment makes intimidating opportunities accessible and immediately actionable.
Evaluate current actions by asking what your future self will be grateful you had the courage to do. This reframes daunting tasks as future victories and builds momentum by appreciating your past self's brave decisions, making it easier to act now for future benefit.