Inhale. Loud exhale.

That is literally what happened before I began typing.

Why?

Because I am preparing to share my imperfections.

There was a venture that I wanted to launch for almost 2 months. I brainstormed, listed, talked about it, thought it through, journaled about it and thought it through some more. I did everything but execute the darn thing.

Why?

Because I was scared.

The morning before I finally took the leap, during my quiet time, I reflected on my fear. Why did I have it? And why wouldn’t the darn thing go away?

Because it was like a residue still lingering.

It what?

Memories.

Memories of limitations and the need to live within the boundaries of others’ “status quo” expectations. These memories became integrated during childhood, and in that moment of fear rising, I dared to override them. As that thought came to me, another came right behind it, and I wrote it down.

My fear is a collection of ideas that are the residual of my past. They are only shadows. It’s a residual effect of my experiences that created a mindset. But with practice and reprogramming, I can change that mindset.

The sentence that followed in my journaling is one I share with you now, and my hope is that if fear is holding you back, you repeat these words until they are real for you.

I AM changing my mindset to empower myself.

If you’ve been inspired, please share your inspirations to inspire someone else.