Don't Listen to The Naysayers

It was a lovely spring day. I was relishing in the joy of one of my new grandsons. His tiny sweet body in my arms. His whole future and potential possibilities just waiting for him. It’s easy to get caught up in those moments of all the things you would have done differently as a parent. How you would have cherished all of the moments more, now that you know how fleeting they truly are. How you would stare at their tiny faces just a little longer to memorize the fullness of their cheeks and the ways their eyes sparkle when they laugh. A lifetime of memories flooding my mind as I gaze into the eyes of a life just begun.

Later that afternoon our home had visitors, wanting to share in the joy of our new family blessing. I was happy. I was content. As I reveled in my new Grammy bliss, I was caught off guard when asked, “How’s your business going?” At that moment, my business was the furthest thing from my mind.

Things had been slow and I told them as much. I was expecting a consoling remark. Something along the lines of, “You’ve been dealing with a lot and taking care of so many other people. It makes sense that things would be a little slower.” 

Instead of words of comfort or support, I was greeted with a dismissive, “There’s so many people doing it now anyway.” As if to say I should stop or as though they didn’t believe that I could be successful anymore. I’m not sure if that’s what was intended with that statement, but that’s how it felt.

I sat there as the air left my lungs. The words stung more than I thought they would. I had no idea how to respond. Eviscerated in the midst of a seemingly innocent conversation. Why did this get to me so much?

A litany of questions flooded my mind.

Does part of me feel guilty for not being so present in my business?

Am I struggling with not feeling as far along as I think I should be?

Does what I do even matter if there are so many others that can do the same?

After we said our goodbyes, I sat with my feelings. Trying to listen to what they were telling me. I could have easily agreed with what was said. There are SO many who have similar businesses and offerings. What difference or impact would I have? 

It would be so much easier to just give up. 

It would be easier to go back to “normal.”

At this moment, I could have allowed this one simple statement to derail the entirety of my dreams. Instead, I chose to allow it to rekindle the passion I once held so dear. More determined than ever. 

I choose to believe in myself even when others don’t.

I choose to believe in the path that’s been placed in front of me. Even when it’s not easy.

I choose to believe in the beauty of my dreams. Even when others can’t see my vision.

I know we all have stories similar to this one. We’ve all been met with naysayers in our lives. Don’t allow their disbelief to diminish your light. What you have to offer the world is so important. No one else has your perspective. No one else can do things exactly the same way you can. No one else can reach the people you are called to serve. 

Ask yourself the following questions:

What is it I truly want out of my time with my business and my clients?

What would allow me to feel most fulfilled as well as being of service to others?

What does sustainable look like to me?

Who are “my people?”

What kind of community am I wanting to build?

I find that having the answers to these questions readily available allows me to disarm any naysayer comment for myself. The strength of their disbelief doesn’t take the same hold anymore.

Thank you for being here. I believe in you. I love you.

Amy