If you’re reading this, chances are you’re on your own growth journey seeking clarity, courage, and maybe even a breakthrough. And if so, I want to start with a simple truth:

Breakthroughs rarely happen when everything feels easy. Most of the time, you have to do it scared.

For much of my life and career, I’ve learned this lesson over and over again. From working three entry-level jobs, including one at Walmart, to eventually ringing the bell on the New York Stock Exchange as part of a C-Suite team leading a multi-billion-dollar company, I experienced firsthand how powerful breakthrough moments can be.

But I also learned about the mental and emotional battles that can stop you before you ever get started.

Moving From Corporate to Creativity

As I transitioned from corporate executive to author and entrepreneur, I found myself face-to-face with my own fears again. In one of my YouTube videos, I share the story of my first-ever vendor booth as an author, a moment I had imagined would feel exciting and empowering.

Spoiler: it didn’t start that way.

Think: minor panic attack, tight throat, shaky hands, sweaty palms, and a smile that felt two sizes too small. Add a gusty breeze, a flimsy tripod, and a top-heavy iPhone, and the whole setup felt like it could fall apart at any moment.

In those moments, you face a choice:
Do you pack it up? Or do you push through?

I pushed through, awkwardly, imperfectly, and absolutely scared. And that experience reminded me of something essential on the breakthrough journey:

Why I’m Still Doing Things Scared

Even now, I’m stepping into new territory. I’m writing, creating, sharing my work, and continuing to stretch myself in ways that feel both thrilling and terrifying.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is this:

If you let fear tell the story, you’ll stay stuck in the same chapter.

Instead, I choose to focus on why I’m doing this, to help someone who needs encouragement, someone who needs to know they aren’t alone, someone who needs a push to take their own brave step.

And maybe that someone is you.