From Real Estate Nightmare to Realized Potential: You Can Do This
At thirty-something, with three kids, a zoology degree, and a severe lack of foresight, I traded my steady teaching job for the unpredictable world of real estate. Let's just say, it wasn't a smooth transition. In fact, it was a spectacular crash landing. I quickly discovered that my primary role was convincing people to work with me – a daunting task for someone whose self-confidence was perpetually on life support. To add fuel to the fire, the Great Recession loomed, threatening the livelihood of my contractor husband and myself. Oh, and we decided to have a fourth child. Because why not?
The next two years were a masterclass in disaster. My real estate career failed to launch, I suffered a devastating loss, my marriage teetered on the brink, and I seriously contemplated throwing in the towel. It was a dark period, to say the least.
But here’s the thing I learned: You can do this. Whatever "this" is for you. Whatever you're facing, you possess the innate ability to not just survive, but to thrive. Even if you're paralyzed by fear, battling constant setbacks, or struggling with a long-held dream, you have the power to achieve it.
It's easy to fall into the trap of believing that happiness and fulfillment are reserved for a select few. We tell ourselves that life is hard, that dreams are out of reach, and that mediocrity is the norm. But that’s a lie.
Let's talk about your brain. You have this incredible organ, capable of superhuman feats. Your amygdala, the primitive "lizard" brain, is designed for survival. It can push you to extraordinary lengths when necessary. But it also holds onto limiting beliefs, whispering doubts and fears.
Then there’s your cerebral cortex, the more evolved part of your brain. It craves connection, joy, and purpose. It's the part that dreams of art show openings and coffee table books. The problem? These two parts are often at war.
You get an idea, a spark of inspiration. Maybe you want to pursue photography, write a book, or start a business. Your cerebral cortex lights up with excitement. But then, the amygdala chimes in:
"Who do you think you are? You don't have the time, the money, or the talent. Stick to what you know. It's safer."
And just like that, the spark fizzles. You retreat to your comfort zone, your dreams left unfulfilled.
But it doesn't have to be this way. You can learn to tame your amygdala and harness the power of your cerebral cortex. It's not easy, but it's possible.
Successful people aren't born with special gifts. They've simply made a decision to pursue their goals and they've stayed in motion. They've learned to silence the inner critic and push past the fear.
Look around you. There are countless stories of ordinary people achieving extraordinary things. The homeless man who became a millionaire motivational speaker. The poor girl who built a media empire. The prisoner who became a president.
These people faced obstacles, doubts, and setbacks. But they chose to believe in themselves and take action.
Here’s the key:
Recognize the amygdala's voice. Identify the limiting beliefs and fears that are holding you back.
Challenge those beliefs. Question their validity and replace them with empowering thoughts.
Take small steps. Action, no matter how small, builds momentum and confidence.
Don't give up. The journey to success is rarely linear. Expect setbacks and keep moving forward.
You have the power to create the life you desire. You have the ability to overcome any obstacle. You have the potential to achieve mind-blowing success and fulfillment.
So, what are you waiting for? You can do this.