Finding Believers

One of the most powerful lessons I have ever learned, was to align myself with the ‘believers’. To find the people who are positive, open to new ideas, encouraging and supportive. I learned this lesson many years ago when I first entered the workforce.

I had a grandiose idea, but I thought it was a good one. I was energized with passion and excited. Unfortunately, my supervisor did not think it was a good idea. She had many reasons why my idea could not work. I felt disenchanted and ready to abandon the idea. My father on the other hand, is a believer. He told me to find the people who are believers, and use that energy to help propel my ideas forward.

I listed to him and did exactly that. In the end, too many people were excited by my vision, and my supervisor reluctantly gave in. She ended up supporting me on the project in the end and it was a huge success, one that I am still proud of to this day.

With my own entrepreneurial pursuits, I am always looking for people who are doing what I am doing, or want to do. I use them as a virtual mentor. For example, my virtual mentor is Elizabeth Gilbert, author of “Eat, Prey, Love”. She continues to inspire me. She has created her entire identity herself, and she does this with authenticity and humility. Her work empowers people. In particular, her Ted talks on creativity, or her 2011 ICAN’s speech at the women’s leadership conference.

If I could meet Elizabeth Gilbert in real life, I would ask her what her biggest fear is, and how she overcomes it. In the mean time…I continue to keep the messages of my dad and so many others. I follow people like Elizabeth Gilbert to keep me inspired and I will always look out for the ‘believers’.

This blog post is in response to Natalie’s 10 Day Freedom Plan Blog Challenge Day 6