Have you ever stared down a new challenge and whispered to yourself, Am I good enough? Whether it’s a promotion, a new project, or some wild opportunity, self-doubt has a sneaky way of creeping in just when you’re needed to rise the most.
For me, that moment came earlier this year when I stepped onto that red dot – the mark where speakers stand on the TEDx stage. There I was, ready to share a message I was deeply passionate about, a message I had poured hours of preparation into. I had love, support, and prayers carrying me forward—but in that moment, doubt slammed into me like a ton of bricks.
My mouth felt like the Sahara Desert. If someone had offered me two sips of water for $1,000, I probably would’ve thrown my wallet at them. Those next 18 minutes felt like standing on a razor’s edge of fear and determination. But here’s what I learned about fear in that moment:
It doesn’t disappear. You have to step through it.
You must remember your “why.” I wanted to make an impact. I wanted the message in my heart to help others. And somehow, through faith, the love of those who believed in me, and a lot of self-belief, I delivered that talk.
Here’s what’s wild. That TEDx talk? It’s now blown past two million views. That means a message that almost wasn’t delivered due to my momentary flirtation with fear has resonated with two million people! It’s proof that we never know what God has in store for us when we step forward in courage.
Here’s the thing I want you to take away today. We all have moments of fear and self-doubt. But the truth is, growth and opportunity live on the other side of fear. When we attach our purpose to something greater than our fear, we silently give ourselves permission to stretch into our full potential.
God has a calling for each of us. And when we step into it — even if we shake while doing it — we not only grow, we elevate the people around us. That dream, that small act of courage, that step into the unknown might be the exact catalyst someone else needs, even if you don’t see it in the moment.
Your “red dot” moment is waiting for you. Don’t trip over it. Step into it. Whatever it is, go meet it. Because on the other side of fear lies your greatest potential.
If you want to be part of building something bigger than yourself, this book is a great place to start! Jon Gordon on Leading with Significance
Grab your copy of Leading with Significance to find more magnetic insights to help you on your unique journey.
For more information on my presentations or to access my beBetter blog library go to joeyhavens.com.
