Recently, I was put up to the task of watching a Netflix special called, “A Call to Courage” by Brene Brown.  I wasn’t quite sure what I would take away from the hour long talk, but was surprised with the outcome.  

I have always realized that it isn’t easy to market yourself with confidence.  I’ve found this task especially difficult as an introvert not to mention a die hard perfectionist.  It is hard to put yourself “out there” and risk failure.  

It takes strength and vulnerability to take risks.  Let’s talk a little bit about ways you can show up even when the stakes are high or you are dealing with haters or non-supporters!

What Does It Mean To Be Vulnerable?

You aren’t exercising vulnerability without risk.  Being vulnerable means you are showing up even when you can’t control the outcome and there is a risk of potential failure.  

Vulnerability means choosing courage in the face of adversity or naysayers.  This isn’t always easy.  Being vulnerable is being open to failure.  The funny thing about vulnerability is the more you do it, the more authentic your existence.  Fully living life and showing your whole self including flaws encourages growth and personal development.

My question for you is do you show up?  Are you putting yourself out there regardless of the potential outcomes?  Do you believe in yourself enough to make that investment?

Ignoring Haters And Naysayers

Being in online business can be both lonely and cut throat at the same time.  It seems much easier for others to critique and even be cruel when you can do so anonymously and not take responsibility for the action taken and the impact inflicted by those actions.

If you are getting negative feedback online, you need to censor with careful discernment who you listen to.  Why?  Because in the absence of this; you can let the negativity take over and damage your self-worth and future confidence in your ability to be successful in online business.

Have the courage to show-up and put your work out there.  Your tribe will love you, but there will always be haters waiting to tear you down.  Often those who are online bringing negativity are scared of being vulnerable or brave themselves and live in a persistent state of negativity.  Don’t let their unhappiness impact your life journey and what you seek to accomplish.

If you are selling things, you need to respond to reviews of your product, but seek to stay positive and neutral.  If the complaint is legit, than you can solve it.  If it is there just to cause negativity, remember that your responses are not really for the person posting a negative review, but for those potential customers that come after and read the reviews.  Always take the high road.  No arguments or petty criticism.

Seeking Support From People Who’s Opinions Matter

It is extremely important that you develop relationships open to supportive criticism and trust.  You may want genuine feedback and I don’t know about you, but that feels best coming from a person I love, trust, and respect.

If you are struggling to develop a support system who understands your business seek to find an online community who can build you up and provide support and validation in the areas that are i

Developing Strength And Resilience

You might fail….what is important is your ability to take future risks even if you can’t control the outcome.  Don’t live life and arrive at the end with regrets.  Even the most difficult experiences result in lessons learned, and often these are the most important life lessons of all.

Celebrate your successes, but stay humble.  Choose to pick others up and return strength and support when you are called upon. 

Being Brave When It Matters Most

Have you ever allowed fear to paralyze you?  Has it held you back?  Do you feel that you have a business idea or venture you feel passionately about that could be a way to earn a living?  

If you answered yes to any of these questions, and fear of failure is holding you back I dare you to be brave.  Show up.  If you don’t you’ll never know if your life and/or the lives of others could’ve been forever changed as a result.

If you’ve got a story to share about vulnerability and bravery that taught you a unforgettable life lesson lesson drop it in the comments below.

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