Life has a way of presenting us with unexpected challenges. It sometimes makes us feel like we’re being pushed off a cliff rather than taking a deliberate leap. As the saying goes, we must learn to grow wings on the way down.
In a recent interview, I shared my story of deciding to take the leap into my own speaking business 25 years ago when the seminar company for which I was an independent contractor got bought by a competitor.
Here I share what I learned from that leap and others. I hope these tips will help you embrace the leap—despite the fear, uncertainty and feeling that the ground below seems to be disappearing beneath your feet.
- Explore Your Options
When faced with unexpected changes, it’s essential to assess your options. Do you opt for the familiar, comfortable path? Do you reluctantly accept an undesirable offer? Or do you conjure up the courage to chase your dreams?
In my situation the options were:
- Choose the comfortable option of going back to a “day job” in university administration which I had left.
- Accept the undesirable offer made by the competitor who took over the seminar company.
- Pursue the courageous option of making the leap and starting my own speaking business. I responded to this much-needed nudge—and pursued the dream career I had always wanted!
- Tapping into Your Network
You’re not in this alone. Lean on your network of supporters—whether it’s professional associations, business colleagues, or friends and family.
In my case, I was able to obtain resources from my professional speakers association and receive support and referrals from friends and family.
One of my colleagues who was downsized from her job without warning was able to get job prospects and recommendations from her industry association.
- Asking for What You Need
Asking for help can be intimidating, but it’s often the only way to find new opportunities. Whether it’s seeking guidance, support, or resources, we have to let others know what we need. “If you don’t ask, you don’t get” is what I always say. Although, I think Gandhi said it first.
Here are some phrases I’ve personally found to be effective. I hope these will help you ask for what you need to take the leap:
“I need your help with…”
“Could you please…”
“I would greatly appreciate…”
“Would it be possible to…”
“Would you consider…”
“Would you be willing to…”
“Would you be open to…”
“I could use your support with…”
“Could you assist with…”
“Is there a chance you could…”
“Would you mind helping me with…”
“I could really use your expertise in…”
“Is it possible for you to offer guidance on…”
“I’d be grateful if you could…”
“Who do you know who could benefit from my services…”
So, the next time you need to take a leap into the unknown, remember to assess your options, leverage your network and be sure to ask for help. With courage, determination and a little bit of faith, you’ll find yourself soaring with your newfound wings—even when the ground beneath you is nowhere in sight. Here’s to embracing the leap!
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The importance of asking for help is also mentioned in a previous blog on How to Stay Positive and Hopeful in Hard Times
