We all have weaknesses. It’s the blessing (and curse) of being human. While it’s easy to blame these shortfalls for the disappointments in our life, they’re not the reason. Our failure to overcome them is the real reason.

Success is determined by our ability to OVERCOME our weaknesses.

My nervous smile...

I’m reminded of this as an attendee at one of my speaking events gushes, “You’re so lucky you’re good at speaking! I’m too shy and could NEVER do that!” I smile and share a little secret,

“LUCK has nothing to do with it.”

The truth is, I’m quite an introvert myself. I get very nervous before speaking and can feel awkward at social events.

Those are my weaknesses. However, instead of letting them paralyze me I work to overcome them. I purposely put myself out there in situations that make me uncomfortable. I take the sink/swim approach to self help. It’s not always pretty, but it can be quite a confidence builder. Never avoid the opportunity to rise to a challenge. I guarantee you, 99% of the time you’ll amaze yourself.

How can you expect to grow if you never give yourself a chance to grow?

To overcome your weaknesses, start by re-directing that energy to your strengths. Develop coping mechanisms beforehand to help guide you through the rough patches. The more prepared you are to face your fears, the less helpless you’ll feel. Instead of dreading the idea of having to introduce yourself countless times, get excited about hearing the stories of the new and exciting people you’ll get the chance to meet. Replace the fear of public speaking with the sheer joy of knowing you’re inspiring another soul to follow their dreams. Don’t worry about “selling” your products, let your drive to provide a good life for your family steer you straight. Mindset is everything.

Now that I’ve shared my weakness, what’s yours? Look within and find that monkey on your back. How can you shake it off? The only limits we have in this world are the limits we set on ourselves. Our faults aren’t failures, but merely opportunities for growth.  Once you break through that glass ceiling, a world of possibility awaits you.

Vow today to stop standing in the way of your own success.

Need some music to put you in the mood? Love this, “It’s always darkest before the dawn…”