Career & Business Coaching Blog.
Inspiration and tips for multi-passionate creatives & entrepreneurs.
How Perfectionism Keeps You Stuck, And How to Stop Letting it Hold You Back.
Perfectionism can be a double-edged sword. In small doses, it can be an inspiring and motivating force that pushes us to reach for the best. It can help us stay focused, work hard and remain committed to a goal. In most cases, unfortunately, perfectionism becomes a prison that keeps you from fulfilling your potential.
In this article, we'll discuss what perfectionism is, common signs of perfectionism, how it keeps you stuck, and finally, I'll offer some practical tips on how to stop letting it hold you back.
What Is Perfectionism?
Perfectionism is a thought pattern where one has an extreme need for everything they do to be perfect. Common signs of perfectionism include black-and-white thinking, all-or-nothing thinking, feeling overwhelmed by the task, procrastination due to fear of failure, and overthinking decisions.
It's important to understand that perfectionism isn't just about achieving high standards; instead, it's more of an emotional response to making mistakes or not meeting expectations. Perfectionists are often highly critical of themselves and others and have an unrealistic view of their abilities.
Perfectionism is not a healthy mindset.
Even though perfectionism is often worn as a badge of honor, most perfectionists don't experience it as a good thing. Instead, it can be a significant source of stress due to endless procrastination and feelings of never being good enough, worthlessness, and discontentment.
If you're a perfectionist, I'm sure you're familiar with the fear of failure or criticism and how they cause you to set impossible standards for yourself. Because you're afraid not to live up to those standards, you quickly become overwhelmed and don't take risks. You may also find yourself procrastinating and never getting started on tasks because you're trying to make everything perfect before even beginning.
When perfectionism gets out of control, rather than encouraging progress and growth, it keeps us stuck in an endless loop of thinking, overthinking, and analyzing every detail until we never reach the finish line. When we focus too much on ensuring everything is perfect—our work, our relationships, or ourselves—we cannot take risks or accept failure as part of the learning process. Instead of feeling motivated and energized by challenges, we feel overwhelmed and paralyzed by them.
Where does perfectionism come from?
Perfectionism can stem from several sources, including upbringing, cultural norms, and insecurities. I believe perfectionism is a defense mechanism or a success strategy we learned in childhood to be safe by gaining approval and acceptance from those around us. Recently, a student in my writing class who's also a teacher shared that the most gifted children in her class are often the ones who suffer the most from perfectionism. They say no to activities they might fail at because they've been conditioned to believe failure is unacceptable.
It's important to understand that perfectionism is not necessarily something you're born with—it's often an acquired behavior or way of thinking. We may have learned it from our parents, teachers, or peers who believed that only the best was good enough. Or, as in my case, it stems from a need for control I internalized very young to survive in an emotionally and physically chaotic home.
How is perfectionism keeping you stuck?
Perfectionism can manifest itself through various behaviors, thoughts, and feelings. It often shows up as procrastination, avoidance, ruminating over decisions or outcomes, and having unrealistic expectations of oneself. Taking a long time to do simple tasks or overthinking every detail so much that progress stalls or stops. You might also find that you're unable to let go of mistakes or failures, striving for an unrealistic level of excellence and never feeling satisfied with your work.
Perfectionism also manifests in negative self-talk—constantly criticizing yourself for not being good enough or beating yourself up for making mistakes. This type of thinking hinders progress by generating feelings of inadequacy and insecurity which keep us stuck in our comfort zone because we're too afraid to take risks and try something new.
In my practice, I see many creatives and entrepreneurs who suffer from perfectionism. Although incredibly gifted and talented, they get stuck because of their perfectionist tendencies. They feel overwhelmed and paralyzed by fear of failure and criticism so much that it prevents them from doing anything about their creative ideas or business dreams. Instead of taking any action, they prefer to do nothing. Like Margie, a talented writer who doesn't start her novel because she's convinced it won't be good enough, or Amir, who is too afraid to show his work and start selling it, so he keeps it to himself.
How to stop letting perfectionism hold you back?
Even though perfectionism can hold us back and prevent us from taking action, it doesn't have to be that way. Understanding what triggers our perfectionism and developing healthier expectations makes it possible to break free from the grip of perfectionism and learn how to take healthy risks. Here are a few tips that can help:
#1 Awareness
The first step towards overcoming perfectionism is becoming aware of it. We need to understand our perfectionist tendencies and the negative patterns that we've internalized to make a change. It was hard to see that I was a perfectionist until I noticed how expecting so much of myself and others affected my work and relationships. That's when I was finally able to make the shift. Once we become aware, we can challenge our perfectionist thinking and behavior. Perfectionism hides in many places: how we speak to ourselves, approach tasks and projects, or even the standards we set for ourselves. Once we become aware of the areas in which perfectionism is holding us back, it's easier to identify and break these patterns.
#2 Accept imperfection
Once you recognize it, challenge your thinking by asking questions like: Why do I need everything to be perfect? What will happen if I make mistakes? How can I use this situation as an opportunity for learning and growth? Accept imperfection. This might sound counterintuitive, but accepting your limitations and shortcomings is the key to freeing yourself from perfectionism. When I finally realized that I couldn't write perfectly on the first try, I stopped procrastinating and instead started writing. Recognizing that you're not perfect allows you to make mistakes without feeling guilty or ashamed.
#3 Aim for progress, not perfection
Aim for progress rather than obsessing over perfectionism. We should focus on making progress, no matter how small, rather than striving for perfection. This shift allowed me to finally start my podcast after thinking about it for more than seven years! Even if it was well-intentioned, perfectionism can make you feel like every single detail needs to be perfect. It's more important to focus on the progress that you're making. It's okay if things aren't perfect immediately; what matters is that you keep moving forward and learning from your mistakes. 1% better every episode; that's what I'm aiming for with my podcast now, instead of waiting for perfection to get started.
#4 Learn to accept your mistakes
The key is learning to let go of needing everything to be perfect for it to have value or worth. Accept that mistakes will happen; this will allow you the freedom and confidence to take risks without fear of failure. One thing I've done to help me to accept my mistakes is to learn to appreciate them. The first big one I enjoyed this way was the monologue I delivered on stage last year. It could have been better, but it was good enough. Instead of looking at the mistakes and getting frustrated, I chose to look at the experience as a learning opportunity and use it to improve my speaking skills and create something better next time.
#5 Practice self-compassion
Finally, practice self-compassion. Replace feelings of inadequacy and shame with acceptance and understanding. Remind yourself that making mistakes is part of life and doesn't make you any less amazing. Treat yourself like your best friend and be gentle with yourself when setting standards. If you can view mistakes as an opportunity for growth, they become much less intimidating. I had to show a lot of self-compassion for myself recently when I changed my marketing focus quite drastically without knowing how it would pan out. So far, I'm pleased with the results and confident I chose the right path.
If it wasn't clear yet, I'm a recovering perfectionist. I've already done a lot of work to break free from the shackles of perfectionism. However, I'm still learning and practicing to be an imperfectionist—to accept that done is better than perfect, that sometimes making a mistake is okay, and that it's the journey, not the destination, that matters most.
It takes time and practice to break the cycle of perfectionism, but it's absolutely possible; I see it in my work and life every day. Be patient and persistent, and you will create a life full of success, satisfaction, and joy!
Are you feeling overwhelmed by perfectionism?
As an ambitious person, it’s only natural that you want to produce top-notch results. But the constant quest for perfection can lead to procrastination and stagnation in your career or business. That’s why private coaching can be a powerful tool for breaking through these barriers.
With private coaching, you’ll get personalized attention and accountability from me. I'll help you identify areas of improvement and offer advice on how to reach your goals with greater confidence and efficiency. You'll also develop new strategies that empower you to move forward without dreading every mistake along the way.
15 Dream Jobs For Creative Generalists (aka Multi-Passionate Creatives)
A creative generalist (also known as a polymath, a jack-or-jill-of-all-trades, a multipotentialite, a multi-passionate creative, or even a Da Vinci man or woman) is someone who has diverse skills, interests, and knowledge. They see connections between unrelated things and solve problems in unconventional ways. Because of their unique brain wiring, they need a lot of variety to remain engaged in their work. It's vital for them to feel challenged to learn new things, utilizes their skills, and that their job is meaningful and serves a greater purpose than themselves.
My definition of creative generalists reads like this:
Curious and adventurous dabbler, explorer, and fast learner - someone with many talents, broad interests, and a hunger for knowledge across many topics. A natural program-solver and bridge-builder with thicker skin for failure and a capacity for change. Doesn't fit into a specific career path. Easily bored. Loves to get started over and over again. Always in for a challenge.
Creative generalists can bring a unique perspective and innovative thinking to any job, but some careers are especially suited to their skill set and to keep them happy and interested.
Here are 15 dream jobs that creative generalists might consider:
1. Art Director: If you want to work in a field that requires diverse artistic and creative expression, this is a great place to start. Art directors create visuals and campaigns for advertisement and branding campaigns, direct photo shoots, and manage visual style guides. They combine various skills to create a cohesive story for their clients. Generalists are particularly suited to be art directors because they can draw on many sources, interests, and talents to create something truly unique.
2. Travel Photographer: If you have many interests and talents, a career as a travel photographer can be gratifying. It's an ideal career for those who love exploring and capturing gorgeous images and learning something new daily. If you don't want to be tied down to one place, need variety in your work, like meeting people and exploring different cultures, and have a knack for photography, this career might be ideal for you.
3. Art Therapist: Combining art, psychology, and emotion, art therapy helps people express themselves through creativity, understand themselves better, and find healing. Art therapists use traditional art-making materials such as paint, clay, ink, and various philosophies of life to guide and counsel their clients. Creative generalists who like helping others can apply their diverse skillset to this field to facilitate healing and help people increase self-awareness and cope with emotional distress.
4. Credit Manager: A credit manager is responsible for managing a business's money flow. This work involves overseeing customer accounts, approving loans, and managing repayment plans. You need to have strong analytical skills to be able to forecast cash flow and make decisions based on financial trends, but also tap into a wide range of topics and can understand different contexts to come up with creative solutions to money-related problems—an ideal career for hungry for knowledge and problem-solving creative generalist.
5. UX/UI Designer: UX (user experience) and UI (user interface) designers combine the technical aspects of design with innovative thinking to create aesthetically pleasing and easy-to-use products. You'll need to think on your feet to solve complex design problems, but you'll be rewarded with the satisfaction of using your skills and ideas to create something new - and of great use to others! It's an excellent career choice for the creative generalist who loves psychology, technology, problem-solving, and building things.
6. Video Producer: From short documentaries to corporate videos, video producers are the people who bring stories to life. Video producers need to be able to write, direct, shoot and edit videos, so a diverse skill set is essential. Creative generalists with an eye for detail and a passion for storytelling can easily find their place in this fast-growing field, where their technical and artistic skills can shine.
7. Copywriter / Ghostwriter: Copywriting is about creating compelling content that grabs attention and drives action. A creative generalist with a good grasp of language and the ability to dig into and learn about new subjects can make a great copywriter. The same is true for ghostwriters, who write content for books, speeches, or articles but are not credited for it. Both professions are perfect for those who can't live without learning something new and crafting stories that stand out.
8. Digital Marketer: Digital marketing requires knowledge of both digital media and traditional marketing principles, making it ideal for creative generalists who have experience with both. They need a wide range of interests and skills to juggle all the aspects of digital campaigns, from content creation and strategy to analytics. A digital marketer brings together words, images, videos, and other content to create effective campaigns that reach their target audience.
9. Event Planner: For the creative generalist who thrives on imagination and loves planning and organizing events, this career is a great way to combine their passion for people, design, and coordination. Event planners create unique experiences that capture an audience's attention; they need to be creative, understand their client's wishes, think outside the box, and handle all the technical details involved in event planning. This career is perfect for those who don't want two days to look the same.
10. Business Consultant: A business consultant offers guidance for businesses on a variety of topics, such as marketing, finance, operations, and strategy. Creative generalists with a broad range of knowledge and savvy sales and business experience make excellent consultants, as they can combine their expertise and hunger for knowledge with creative problem-solving skills to help businesses reach their goals. This career is perfect for those who want to use their creativity, need for variety, and ability to understand complex concepts and experiences to help others succeed.
9. Video Game Designer: If you have a lot of imagination and love technology and telling or creating stories, this could be your career. As a video game designer, you'll plan out levels, design characters, develop storylines and write code that makes the game playable. Strong computer programming skills are a plus for this job, although this is undoubtedly something generalists can learn as they go (don't you love your brain!). Applying your understanding of how stories are created, worlds are built, and how people interact with technology will keep this job interesting.
10. Social Media Manager: If you are passionate about staying up-to-date on the latest trends in social media, becoming a social media manager could be the perfect fit. As a social media manager, you'll need to stay on top of the newest platforms and technological trends and create engaging content that will draw people in and encourage them to take action. Good writing skills, an eye for design and detail, and an understanding of how different platforms work are essential for this job. Never a dull day in the office for creative generalists here!
11. Project Manager: Project managers are the people who oversee and coordinate complex projects. It's a versatile and rewarding job for creative generalists who fear boredom like Superman feared kryptonite. It does require analytical thinking and spreadsheet and detailed planning, so it won't be for all generalists, even though their skills come in handy in this job, as project managers need to be able to understand a wide range of topics, communicate effectively and juggle multiple tasks. If you like solving puzzles and working with people, then project management might be the career for you!
12. Brand Strategist: A brand strategist is responsible for developing strategies that help build a company's image and reputation. You will be responsible for researching the competition, identifying target markets, and devising creative campaigns that capture attention. For this job, you'll need good analytical skills, excellent communication abilities to effectively convey the strategy to stakeholders, and a love for design and storytelling.
13. Software Developer: Software development can be a great career choice for the creative generalist who thrives on challenges. This job involves coding, troubleshooting, and debugging software applications for various platforms. You'll need strong problem-solving skills to create the software your client or employer will need. A degree in computer science or a related field is handy. However, many companies today teach you the skills you'll need on the job. Software development is an excellent career for those who like the challenge of tackling tough problems!
14. Animator/VFX Artist: An animator is responsible for bringing characters and stories to life through motion graphics or 3D animations. Working as an animator requires understanding how people interact with visuals and technical skills in animation software. Additionally, VFX artists create special effects in videos and films, so knowledge of video editing software is also necessary. Staying on top of new trends and techniques will help you stay ahead in this field.
15. Entrepreneur: Of all the careers creative generalists can go for, one of the most rewarding and suited for their particular strengths and creative needs is to become an entrepreneur. This career path involves developing a unique idea for a product or service, creating a business plan, launching the business, managing resources, and developing strategies for growth. Entrepreneurship requires creativity, learning new things, being able to wear different hats, ambition, dedication, and problem-solving skills to succeed.
A note about portfolio careers
All of these careers are perfect options for creative generalists who want to use their broad range of knowledge and experience to make something new and innovative. For some generalists, however, even these multi-skill careers still feel too limiting. This may be the case for you. If so, you're not alone.
Many generalists don't have one but at least two such careers they juggle or work where they combine the exciting bits of different jobs into what is known as a portfolio career: a career that's tailored to you and your passions; and encompasses a multitude of areas, skills, and interests.
The key with portfolio careers is to find a way to make all of your different interests fit into one coherent career and ensure that what you need to be happy - variety, purpose, challenges, and fun - are present. Building the foundation of a portfolio career can take some time, but if you have the dedication and drive, it's a gratifying experience and something you can achieve!
I know because helping generalists find their dream job or create their dream careers is what I do. If you'd like to explore this, don't hesitate to get in touch! Plus, you can find many remote job opportunities for perfect creative generalist jobs like software, back-end, and junior front-end developers on platforms like Jooble.
Feel overwhelmed by your many talents and interests?
I can help you make sense of it all. As a professional coach, I provide guidance for creatives and entrepreneurs to find their dream job or develop their unique portfolio career from their diverse range of experiences, skills, knowledge and passions.
Imagine how great it would feel to finally create the lifestyle that allows you to do work you love while living the creative and entrepreneurial life of your dreams.
You Deserve to Love Your Job: Here's How to Make it Happen (And Avoid Job Regret)
So many people think it's normal to hate their job. They slog through their days, feeling drained and unhappy. Eventually, they regret starting a job; or resigning for something new like so many people did during the “great resignation”. They thought a new job would be great and now dread coming to work each day, like 72% of young workers, according to a recent survey on “shift shock”. They stay in jobs they dislike because they don't think they deserve better. But that's not true! You deserve to love your job, and it is possible to make that happen. This article will discuss why so many people dislike their jobs or experience job regret and how you can leave or change your job to get one you love. We'll also talk about creating a career that is right for you and makes you happy!
What is job regret?
Job regret is a feeling of dissatisfaction or disappointment with a job you have taken. It can be caused by anything from salary and benefits to work environment, hours, and coworkers. Job regret is usually the result of taking a job without carefully considering all factors that could make it an undesirable position. It may also occur when expectations are unmet, or something changes in your life (like a move or a change in a family situation) that makes your current job no longer ideal for you.
Creatives and entrepreneurs (and creative generalists especially) are prone to experiencing job regret. There are a few reasons for it:
A lack of clarity about what type of job would suit them best
Unrealistic expectations for their career
Feeling like they don't belong in the corporate world
Not fully understanding what it takes to transition from one field or role to another successfully.
It's essential to recognize that feeling dissatisfied with your job isn't something to be ashamed of — it happens! It's how you handle the situation that matters. Let's explore.
You're allowed to love your job!
A wonderful client of mine, let's call her Julietta, was stuck in a job she hated. She was stressed out, unfulfilled, and desperately wanted something different. But despite her unhappiness, she stayed in the position because she felt she didn't deserve anything better. During one of her coaching sessions, Julietta cried and told me how frustrated she was with her job. Then, she asked: "Murielle, am I allowed to love my job?"
That question took my breath away. I've heard many things in almost a decade of being a career and business coach, and even though I know many people wonder about the same thing as Julietta, it was the first time someone had put it into words.
My answer was clear: "Yes, Julietta (and that goes for you as well), you are allowed to love your job!" In fact, it is your right to have a job that makes you happy. You don't have to stay stuck in a job that sucks the life out of you and doesn't fulfill you professionally or personally. Just hearing those words gave Julietta the permission she needed to take action. She started exploring other career options and eventually found one she was passionate about. Now, instead of dreading Mondays, she looks forward to starting her workweek.
Why do we think it's normal to hate our jobs?
In that same session, I asked Julietta why she thought that it was normal for people to hate their jobs, and for her, in particular, to be OK with that, and after some reflection, we uncovered a few reasons:
She had been told by society that it was normal to hate your job, so she accepted it as her fate.
She wasn't sure how to find a job that made her happy or how to create one for herself.
She didn't want to disappoint her father, who wanted her to have a "stable" job with a good salary.
She felt ashamed to admit that she wanted more from life than the 9-to-5 grind offered.
She was afraid of change.
These are all common reasons why many people stay stuck in jobs they don't love. But there is an alternative. It's easy to think that you don't deserve better, but that's not the case. You deserve to love your job, and it is possible to make that happen! What kind of life would it be if we simply had to accept the status quo and never aim for something better? Because that is why so many of us think we have to settle for jobs we don't like: because we've been taught that's the way things are, and it's easier to stay stuck than to go against the grain or strive for something better.
How to make your job more enjoyable
If you're unhappy in your current position, it doesn't mean you should quit. Perhaps you enjoy parts of your job, and you're looking for ways to make it more enjoyable. Here are some tips:
Speak up about the issues you have. If something isn't working for you at your job (like hours, workload, salary), talk to your supervisor about it and see if anything can be done to improve it.
Create goals and milestones for yourself. Setting goals and milestones can help you stay motivated and focused on the bigger picture. It can also help you track your progress and feel proud of your accomplishments.
Find ways to enjoy the work you do. If tasks don't interest or energize you, find ways to make them more enjoyable – listen to music, take short breaks often, or have friendly competitions with your colleagues.
Identify the tasks that drain your energy and focus on delegating or eliminating them. Ask yourself which activities you can delegate to someone else or eliminate.
Recognize and reward your accomplishments. Celebrate the wins, no matter how small. Pat yourself on the back for a job well done, and use these moments as reminders of why you do what you do.
Changing jobs or creating your own career path
So, let's talk about the practical steps for making this happen for you. To start with, if you're in a job that you hate and are ready to leave it, there are some things that you can do to make sure you get the best outcome:
Start by figuring out what you need and want in your next job. Make a list of the things that would make you happy, such as working from home, having flexible hours, etc.
Update your resume and apply for jobs that fit this description.
Reach out to people in industries or positions you're interested in and ask them questions about their work and experiences. This will give you a better understanding of what options are available to you.
Use networking opportunities to connect with potential employers and expand your professional network.
Finally, take risks! Don't be afraid to try something new or step outside of your comfort zone - it
Finding a job you love
The activities of the previous point are a good starting point for finding a job you love. The next step to take is understanding what makes you passionate. This can be anything from wanting more freedom in your career, or being able to have an impact on the world around you. Your passions (especially if you're a creative generalist, a creative, or an entrepreneur) will help guide you toward a career that aligns with your values and makes you happy. Once you know what drives and excites you, then it's time to start exploring different job opportunities. You don't have to stay stuck in the same cycle of unhappiness – there are plenty of resources for finding jobs that make you happy.
Finding a job you love is possible, but it requires some work. Here are some tips for finding or creating the job of your dreams:
Get clear on what makes you happy and fulfilled professionally. What kind of work do you enjoy? What makes you feel energized? What type of environment do you want to be in? Take some time to reflect on these questions and write down your answers.
Do your research and explore different industries, roles, and companies that could fit with what you are looking for. Networking can also help open doors and get you in contact with potential employers.
When applying or interviewing for jobs, be sure to ask the right questions about culture, roles, and responsibilities. You must get a good understanding of what the job is really like, so you can make an informed decision.
If a traditional job isn't working out for you, consider creating your own career path by freelancing or starting a business. This will give you more control over your work, and you can create something that aligns with your passions and values.
Remember to take care of yourself during this process! Changing careers is hard work, and staying motivated and pushing forward is essential even when things seem harsh. Take some time to relax and recharge to remain focused on your goals.
Creating a career that is right for you
If the traditional 9-to-5 job isn't working out, or if you have a hard time finding the right job, then why not create a career that fits your passions and lifestyle? The possibilities are endless! As a coach, I love to help clients create careers that are tailored to their unique skills, interests, and values.
Here are some steps you can take for creating a career that is uniquely yours:
Get clear on your passions, skills, and values – what do you enjoy doing? What unique experiences or qualifications do you have? What drives and excites you? Take the time to understand who You could become a consultant, start an online business, or go freelance. You can also be creative in how you make money – try teaching classes, selling products or services, or even writing books. There are plenty of ways to make money while doing something you love.
Develop an action plan. What steps do you need to take to reach your goals? This could include creating a website, networking with potential clients, or researching the market.
Build relationships for support. Working for yourself can be isolating, so it's important to find community and collaboration opportunities that will help motivate and inspire you along the way. A mentor, colleagues, or friends can provide valuable advice and guidance as you pursue your dreams.
Take action! The most important part of creating a career is taking consistent action toward your goals. Even if it's just one small step each day – take the plunge and start doing something every day to get closer to achieving what you want.
Stay flexible. Creating a career for yourself is an ever-evolving process, and staying open to new opportunities and changes along the way is essential. Don't be afraid to pivot or adjust your plans if needed – it's all part of the journey!
The key takeaway here is that no matter what job you have, it's important to take steps toward creating a career that makes you feel fulfilled and energized each day. When we love our jobs, we can show up and do our best work. So take the time to explore, research, and plan out your career path – you're sure to find something that suits you perfectly!
Happy exploring! :)
Are you feeling stuck in your career and don't know what to do next?
You're not alone. A lot of people feel this way at some point in their lives. That's why I offer private coaching to help you figure out what your next steps should be.
Avoiding job regret is important, and I can help you do that. I'll give you the tools and resources you need to make a successful career change. Plus, I'm an experienced professional who has helped hundreds of people achieve their goals. You can trust me to help you too.
I Want to Start my Own Business, But I Can't Decide on an Idea. What Should I do?
Starting your own business can be a daunting task. But what if you can't even decide on an idea? This is a common problem for many people who want to create their careers. It certainly is a question I get asked a lot by my clients. They have many ideas, no idea, a combination of fears, lack of experience, or blocks holding them back.
How do you get started when you need help deciding what idea to pick?
This is one of the most challenging steps in the entrepreneurial journey, but you can do it. You might have too many ideas or none; perhaps you're overthinking every option until you cancel it without ever taking action. Or maybe - like the creative generalists that I see in my coaching practice - you want to do it all, get super excited by all your amazing ideas, but are quickly overwhelmed after that until your ideas die a slow and agonizing death, and you're back to square one.
If any of this applies to you, I want you to know that you're not alone, and there's nothing wrong with you. You're not crazy, delusional, a daydreamer, or procrastinator. You just haven't been shown the right way to find and develop a business idea that is right for you. You're stuck.
Finding a business idea to settle on.
Even the most indecisive or unsure person can find the clarity to start. I know because that's what I help creatives and entrepreneurs do every day. Let me help you get unstuck and move forward: here are five tips to help you figure out which business idea is best for you.
1. Take some time to reflect and brainstorm - Slowing down is not the strongest trait of creatives and entrepreneurs, and indeed not of multi-passionate creatives (creative generalists). We love to start immediately because we have this creative fire that we need to take action and move forward. This is the most crucial reason we must reflect, brainstorm, and give our ideas some room to take shape.
Whether you have too many ideas or need a clearer one, start writing. Take some time to sit down with yourself and write down everything you've ever considered could be a business, any idea you've ever got excited about, no matter how outlandish they may seem. Only discard possibilities once you've written them down and have taken the time to analyze them one by one. Think about what would make each idea successful or why it could fail. Also, ponder how excited you would be and for how long when developing this idea. This will help you narrow down your choices and clarify which ideas to pursue and which ones to put aside for now.
2. Speak with people in the industry - The worst thing you can do with an idea is to keep it to yourself. This doesn't mean you must tell everyone everything about what you want to do (you do want to be careful with your intellectual property), but you must start talking to people. Speak with mentors, advisors, and peers in the industry who could provide insight into what they think of your idea, help you refine it, and ensure it's viable.
This is the start of your market research. Ask for advice and opinions about your different ideas and what could be done to make them successful. Survey people, call businesses doing something similar, and ask them what their business is like, their challenges, and their great successes. This can provide different perspectives that may give you new insights into which idea will work best for you and whether or not you enjoy building a business with that focus. Knowing what we don't want is as valuable as knowing what we do want. Don't be afraid to act on that feeling; I've said no to many ideas I was first super excited about after talking to people in the industries I was looking to enter.
3. Assess the joy and stress factor of each idea - Before you get too excited about any business idea, assess its joy and stress factors. How much time do you need to start up? What kind of return can you expect after investing time, energy, and effort into developing it? Is this something that you're willing to do?
For your answer to these questions to be helpful, you must answer as truthfully and honestly as possible. Reflect on what is crucial for you and what you'd consider a wonderful life and perfect day. Make sure the idea you select fits in with that vision. If you need a lot of free time, it might not be the wisest idea to start a business that requires you to always be on call. Having clarity of what you need to be happy and fulfilled will help you make better decisions, to make them more quickly and with greater confidence.
4. Consider your skills and interests - Following the previous point, when looking for an idea, consider the skills and interests that you have. You don't need to be an expert to pursue a business or career, but it will make life much easier if you can focus on something that you already have some knowledge or experience in or are excited to learn.
Look at what other businesses are doing and see how they've made things work. Ask yourself if you have the suitable skill set and interests to do something similar or if it would require too much of a learning curve to making it worthwhile. Researching this can help provide answers as to what might fit best for you or where there may be potential gaps in the market that need filling. You could be passionate about a particular topic or want to develop specific skills by starting a business around them; anything! What's important here is to ask yourself whether this business would bring you pleasure, fulfillment, and satisfaction over time without boring the hell out of you.
3. Start a project - Don't just sit around and wait for the perfect business idea or opportunity to fall into your lap. Instead, take action by starting one of your projects right away. This doesn't mean you need to quit your day job immediately (although it's not entirely off the cards either). It means working on something small but real at least once a week (bonus points for every additional day) so that you can start getting feedback from your market and build momentum.
By taking small steps over time, you'll gain the clarity you need to know this is the idea you want to go for: are you enjoying yourself? Do you find the process enjoyable? Can you sustain it? Do people buy your product or service (this is the proof of concept you want, even if it's only a few sales or a small amount)?
Whichever idea you select, ensure it resonates with who you are and what you want to create. And always remember that the best way to find out is by getting started. You cannot think yourself into anything. Eventually, you have to go out and do it!
Unsure of the next steps to starting your business?
Many people feel lost when starting their own business. I offer private coaching services to help you get started on the right foot. I'll work with you one-on-one to help you develop an idea, create a plan of action, and start making progress toward your goals.
You'll have the support of a professional coach every step of the way, who will answer any questions and guide you as needed. With my help, you can finally take control of your future and achieve success on your terms.
Stuck in the Overthinking Loop? Here Are 5 Ways to Get Out.
Do you ever feel like you're stuck in an overthinking loop? You know, where all you can do is think about everything – the good, the bad, and the terrifying – and it's preventing you from taking action? This type of thinking often leads to paralysis by analysis.
Overthinking and worrying about the right decision is stressful and causes anxiety. Those are not great feelings. Instead of helping us get unstuck, they keep us where we are for longer. I know because I've had to work through them to get to where I am today - and so have many of my clients. That endless spiral of thoughts that keeps you up at night, where you get so caught up in your thoughts that you can't make a decision, can be disastrous for your career, business, or personal life, especially if you want to make meaningful progress.
The good news is there are ways to get out of the overthinking loop and start taking action again. In this article, I'll share five strategies to help you get out of your head and move forward! But first, let's take a look at why we overthink in the first place.
Why do we overthink?
We all have fears and concerns that can cause us to overthink. We might be worried about making the wrong decision or feeling doubtful about our abilities or worthiness. Fear of failure and fear of rejection – these can all be triggers for overthinking.
Of course, sometimes it's just human nature – when there's an unknown or unpredictable situation, our natural response is to think more about it to prepare ourselves better and feel less anxious. Chronic overthinking is one of the reasons many people get and stay stuck. Because of brain plasticity, forming a habit of overthinking every choice happens without us realizing it. Add a dash of the nervous system to it that feels as if danger lurks every time a decision needs to be made, and you have a recipe for disaster.
Regardless of why we're doing it, too much rumination can keep us from living a full life and reaching our goals. That's why it's essential to find ways out of the overthinking loop as soon as possible!
Five strategies to get out of the overthinking loop
Train yourself to make quicker decisions: The way to get out of overthinking is by training your brain and nervous system to make quicker decisions without giving them much thought. You want to practice this on little things first, like the pants you will wear today or the coffee or sandwich you will order at Starbucks for lunch. Practice making quicker choices daily and gradually work your way up to more complex situations and options.
Let go of perfectionism: We all want to make the right decision and have perfect outcomes, but that type of thinking can send us into a never-ending cycle of overthinking. Accepting imperfection is key to getting out of the loop; doing something is better than nothing! Remind yourself that mistakes happen, growth requires learning from your failures. Take a risk, and remember that you can course-correct if needed.
Understand your fears: When you're in the overthinking loop, it can become hard to see past your fears. To get unstuck from this kind of thinking, try to understand why you're scared or anxious about making a decision. Is there something you need to learn more about? Do you need help from someone else? Once you have identified the source of your fear and anxiety, it's easier to work through it and move forward.
Eliminate the noise: It's easy to get caught up in the endless loop of thoughts when we have too many options to entertain. To start making progress, take a step back and strip away any distractions, opinions, or options that don't matter so you can focus on what's important and make an informed decision. What ideas can you eliminate? What information will help you make the right choice? What opinions can you do without?
Take action: The only way to get out of the overthinking loop for good is by taking action. Even if it feels scary or uncertain at first – do something! Taking small steps will give you momentum that can help propel you forward into more significant decisions and actions with more confidence. Remember, every day is an opportunity to practice making better decisions, trust yourself, and take action! If you're struggling to find your way out of overthinking, I hope these five strategies have given you some ideas for moving forward.
Overthinking can keep us stuck. It can lead to paralysis by analysis, or worse, make us doubt ourselves in the decision-making moment, so we stay stuck forever. But with the right strategies, it can be a different way. Training yourself into faster decisions, letting go of perfectionism, understanding your fears, eliminating noise, and taking action are all excellent ways to help you break out of the overthinking loop and move forward confidently!
So if you feel stuck in your head and keep contemplating the same ideas or options repeatedly, remember: in the end, you cannot think yourself into anything; you have to go out and do it! Good luck!
Feeling stuck in an overthinking loop and needing to make progress?
Private coaching is a great way to get unstuck and take action. You'll be able to work with me one-on-one, and I'll help guide you to the life and work you want.
Imagine your life if you could finally break free from the chains of overthinking. How much progress could you make if you had someone supporting and motivating you every step of the way? Sign up for a free session today and find out.
The Complicated Life of a Creative: Why It's Okay to Want More Out of Life
Are you feeling stuck in your life or work, even though it looks great on the outside? Do you feel like everything is fine and you should feel blessed, but you're still unhappy?
You're not alone. Last week, a client shared how he felt unfulfilled at work even though he has a "dream job" and asked, "why can't I just be happy with what I have?" The truth is: it's not because, on the outside, it looks like you're successful that you feel that way on the inside.
Creatives, in particular, need to understand how their brains are wired and what they need to do to be happy. You tend not to like boredom or continuous repetition of similar tasks. You crave variety and something creative that makes you want to get up in the morning. You will inevitably become bored and unfulfilled if you don't have this in your day-to-day activities.
It's okay to want more out of life - we all deserve our dreams
It's important to acknowledge that needing more is okay - we should feel no shame for wanting more out of life! But it's also essential to know when not to quit and push through even if things start feeling too routine or monotonous. Otherwise, you might miss out on opportunities that could bring you joy and fulfillment.
It's important to remember that feeling stuck is normal and doesn't mean something is wrong with you. It's a sign that it's time to reassess your goals and develop strategies to approach them differently or be creative in finding new solutions. The key is to find a balance between pushing through when needed and knowing when it's time for a change.
Creativity is an essential part of our lives, and boredom can be a real issue for creative types. If you need more variety in your life or work to keep you interested, it's easy to become unfulfilled. It's essential to recognize what you need so that you can make positive changes in your life. Here are a few things that can help:
#1 Understand your creative brain.
If you're feeling stuck in life or work, take time for self-reflection and use this as an opportunity to learn more about how your creative brain works. Psycho-education is one of the most freeing things you can do for yourself as a creative. It will help you to understand your needs better and make better decisions.
Understanding that a lot of the things you think are flaws and negative about yourself (seemingly not being able to stick to things, always wanting something new, scattered focus, and so on) is part of your creative wiring will enable you to harness the power of your creative abilities and make better decisions.
#2 Give yourself permission to try different things.
It's okay not to know what you want or what direction you're going in. Try something new and explore your options. This doesn't mean you have to quit your job right away or that it's an all-or-nothing thing (a trap many creatives, entrepreneurs, and generalists fall into) - it might just mean trying something new on the side or experimenting with other creative outlets.
When you give yourself permission to try different things, you open up the possibilities and learn more about what makes you happy and fulfilled. You'll be able to take back control over your life and find a way to make things work for you - even if it's not exactly how you initially expected them to.
#3 Take a break from the routine.
When you feel the itch telling you something is boring or has become too easy or repetitive, sometimes, getting away for a short time is all that's needed to reset and recharge. Whether it's taking a weekend off or just taking a walk around the block, take some time for yourself so that you can come back feeling refreshed and inspired again!
The complicated life of a creative can be frustrating at times, but knowing that it's okay to feel stuck and not knowing precisely what you want to do doesn't have to be anxiety-inducing. By allowing yourself to explore different paths, and taking regular breaks away from the routine, you can make positive changes in your life and find fulfillment.
#4 Feed your creative spark.
There's nothing worse for a creative than a life without a creative spark, where there seems to be no freedom to explore, learn new things, or express yourself. Feeding your creative spark is vital for feeling fulfilled and inspired, so be sure to find ways to stoke the fire in your life.
One of the best ways to break out of a rut and find your creative spark again is to do something completely different. Not only will this spark creativity and help get your juices flowing again (literally!), but it can also open up possibilities that you never thought were available. This might mean making time for a passion project, learning something new, or taking on an exciting challenge. It could also mean taking regular breaks away from work and doing things that will refresh your mind and refuel your creativity.
#5 Surround yourself with supportive people.
Finally, remember that plenty of creatives and entrepreneurs feel your pain and go through it themselves. It's helpful to surround yourself with like-minded people who are interested in the same struggles and successes that you are. Whether it's a friend, a mentor, or a coach - having someone to turn to for encouragement can be invaluable when feeling stuck.
By understanding your creative tendencies, giving yourself permission to explore different paths, and taking regular breaks away from the routine - as well as feeding your creative spark and surrounding yourself with supportive people - you too can find a sense of fulfillment and joy in your life. So don't let yourself be stuck - go out and make something great!
No matter how successful your life appears on the outside, it's okay to feel stuck. It doesn't make you a failure or someone who doesn't know what you want. We all need variety in our lives to stay inspired and motivated. Remembering this can help us take steps toward our goals while still accepting where we are in the present moment. With patience and perseverance, you can make the changes in your life that will bring about more satisfaction and joy.
Being honest with yourself about what you need is the first step toward making positive changes. So if you're feeling stuck or unfulfilled, don't be afraid to admit it and seek some support or guidance. Good luck!
Feeling bored and unfulfilled? You're not alone.
There must be more to life than this. Why can't I be happy with what I have?
Private coaching can help you figure out what you want in life and how to get there. With the help of a coach, you can finally start living the life you've always wanted. Coaching is an investment in yourself - one that will pay off for years to come.
Take Control of Your Professional Life: 10 Ways to Create Your Own Career (Even if it Doesn't Exist Yet)
Are you endlessly scrolling job boards, looking for the one job that will spark joy? (Sorry, I meant "fulfillment.") Are you tired of your dead-end job? Do you feel stuck in a rut and don't know what to do? If this sounds like you, know that you're not alone. Creative generalists especially can have a hard time finding work that suits them. I talk to creatives and entrepreneurs who feel like this every day, and they tell me they feel lost and don't know where to turn. Well, I've got some excellent news for you! You can create your own career now!
There are more opportunities than ever before to be your own boss, set your own hours, and make a good living doing something you love. With the Internet, there is a world of information and resources at your fingertips.
The truth is, it's pretty easy to create your own career. With some creativity and elbow grease, you can be well on your way to having the job of your dreams. The way I love to approach it is like a detective. Imagine Columbo or Monk investigating a scene. They take in all the clues and use them to figure out what happened.
In this case, the clues are your skills, experience, talents, and interests. By taking inventory of these things, you can get a clear picture of what kind of career would be a dream come true for you. Let's say you're good with people and love music history. A career as a music journalist or a publicist for a record label might be a good fit. If you're more of a people person and love to be in the thick of things, a career in event planning or human resources might be more your speed. Use your imagination, think outside the box, and don't get bogged down in the details.
It's your career, so you decide
The beauty of creating your own career is that there are no rules. You can be as creative as you want, and there's no wrong answer. Since I've been doing this work with clients, I've seen many people create unlikely careers for themselves:
A professional dog walker and a spiritual teacher who created a successful business walking dogs mindfully.
A high school teacher and a beehive removal specialist who created a business teaching people how to remove negative energy from their homes.
A yoga teacher and a web designer who created a business designing consciousness-infused websites for stressed-out small business owners.
A massage therapist and a baker who created a mobile spa business bringing massages and freshly baked goods to people's homes.
The list goes on and on, and the opportunities are endless. But, like with everything worthwhile, it takes time and effort to create what will be uniquely right for you. In this article, I'll share the ten best tips to get you started creating your own career, even if it doesn't exist yet. Because you know what? You can make it for yourself!
Ten ways to take control of your professional life and create your own unique career (even if it doesn't exist yet)
#1 Dream big
Don't stop yourself by thinking about the jobs that exist or that you know about; instead, let your mind run wild with possibilities. The first step is to dream as big as possible without censoring yourself. What do you want your career to be? What are your goals and aspirations? What are you good at? What do people always come to you for help with? What have you done in the past that you loved or were successful in? How can you combine those things into a new career for yourself? Once you have a clear idea of the career you want to create, you can start taking steps to make it happen.
#2 Do your research
The next step is to do your research. Once you know what you want, especially if it's a career that doesn't exist yet, it's time to find out if there's a demand for it. If you want to be a professional dog walker for circus dogs, for example, you'll need to research the market in your area to see if there are enough clients to support you. If you're looking to start your own event planning business for female writers, you'll need to research whether or not there's a need and demand for that in your community. Knowing your niche(s) and understanding the market you'll be working in is essential. By doing your research, find out about the competition and what they're doing that's working (or not working). The Internet is an excellent resource for this kind of research, but remember good old-fashioned library books and talking to people in the know.
#3 Get creative
Now it's time to get creative and start putting together a plan. This is where you'll need to use your imagination and think outside the box. If you want to be a professional dog walker but want to add your own little sass to it, you'll need to come up with combinations that don't exist yet. What other services can you offer? What other areas can you target? How can you make your business unique? What things can you combine into a unique new business? This is the fun part; it's about combining talents and interests that make you happy, so take your time and enjoy the process.
#4 Set some goals
Once you have a plan, it's time to set some goals. If your goal is to be a cookie-baking massage therapist, for example, you might set a goal to land five new clients in the next month. Or, if you're starting your own event planning sing-along business, your plan might be to book two events in the next six months. Whatever your goals are, make sure they're realistic and achievable and that you have a timeline for reaching them. Don't be afraid to adjust your goals as you go, and remember to celebrate each milestone along the way! This will help you stay focused and on track as you work to create your new career.
#5 Get some experience
If you want to know if your unique career idea will work, it's always a good idea to get some experience first. To find out if people will be into cookie-baking massages, offer the service free to a few friends and see what they think. Or, if you're thinking of starting your own event planning business, offer to help with a friend's writing party. This will not only give you some valuable experience, but it will also help you fine-tune your skills. And, if you're unsure if your idea is viable, it's always better to find out sooner rather than later.
#6 Make some connections
Another critical step in creating your own career is to make some connections. Talk to people already doing what you want or are in a related field. Ask them for advice and guidance. Make sure to expand your network weekly, if not daily. Get involved in your community and attend events related to your industry. These people can provide invaluable information and insights and help you avoid some of the mistakes they made when they started. You never know; they might even be willing to mentor you or give you a few tips. By making connections, you'll gain valuable insights and start to build a network of support that will be essential as you launch your new career.
#7 Start small
You don't have to go all in from the very beginning. Start small and gradually build your new skills into a new career, business or practice. This also means you only need a little to get started, not even a website. What you need most is a good idea, creativity, and the willingness to work hard. Once you have those things, you can start working on your new career one step at a time. This way, you can ensure you're doing what you love before quitting your day job and going all-in. Once you've built up a solid clientele or following, then you can start thinking about expanding.
#8 Pitch yourself to companies
Once you're clear on the unique flavor you want to bring to your new career; you're ready to pitch your new job to companies. Even if you're not looking for a traditional job, there are still plenty of ways to get your foot in the door. You can start by reaching out to companies that align with your values and interests and see if they have any opportunities for someone with your skillset. You can also look for internships or apprenticeships, allowing you to learn more about the industry and gain valuable experience. Or, and this is the most fun thing to do, you can try and sell them on your career idea. I help my clients do this all the time, and it works!
#9 Be prepared to hustle
Creating your own career is not for the faint of heart. It takes hard work, dedication, and a bit of hustle. Because your job is so new, you might need to teach companies about what you do and how you can help them. You'll also need to be prepared to market yourself and your work and to sell your services to prospective clients or the companies you'd like to work for. But if you're willing to work, you can create a successful and sustainable career that you love.
#10 Be patient, persistent, and believe in yourself
Creating your own career takes time and effort, so keep going even if you don't see results immediately. Remember that you're bringing something new and that people need time to accept what they don't know. You'll need to sell it to them, again and again, before they finally catch on. Be patient, be persistent, and most importantly, believe in yourself. If you don't believe in what you're doing, no one else will.
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to achieving your goals and living the life you've always wanted. So, what are you waiting for? Create your own unique career today!
Feeling unfulfilled and underutilised in your career?
You're not alone. A lot of people feel like they're stuck in a job that's not right for them. But what if there was a way to create a career that doesn't exist yet but is perfectly right for you? That's what I help my clients do – find their true calling and make a life they love.
Imagine waking up every day feeling excited to go to work because you know it's going to be an adventure. That's the kind of life I help my clients create – one where they're using their creativity and skills to make a difference in the world. Are you ready for something new?