If not you, then who?
I recently scribbled this question in the margin of my day planner, and I’ve found myself repeating this question a lot this week. So many of us have big dreams, deep hopes, and a desire to be a part of meaningful change. Yet it’s amazing how quickly and quietly self-doubt and fear can creep in. In the blink of an eye, we go from a moment of inspiration, to being overcome with doubt and insecurity. Our thoughts suddenly wonder, “Can I do this? Am I capable? Will anyone notice? Will it matter?” We go from believing we can take a risk and make a difference, to doubting whether or not we have what it takes.
You want to start a new program at work or school, but you’re not sure you’ll be able to find the support for it.
You want to get serious about tackling that health goal or lifestyle change, but you’re afraid you’ll stumble and fall.
You want to get more active politically, tired of feeling helpless when you read the news, but you don’t have a background in advocacy or politics, and you’re not sure where to start.
You want to make a job change, but it’s so daunting and scary; you’re not sure you can do it.
If not you, then who? Fear is a powerful thing; it causes us to doubt and question, to worry and second guess. It often makes us believe, “I can’t do that. I’m not smart enough. It won’t work.”
If not you, then who?
This quote has been a powerful challenge to my own fear and self-doubt this week, reminding me that I am fully capable, skilled, and resilient. I’m worth meaningful, important, big-dream type stuff. If fear holds me back, how will it get done? If I don’t do it, then who will?
Big, meaningful stuff is totally within our reach, but it is up to us to challenge our fear and self-doubt on a daily basis. What are you currently dreaming about doing? What do you find yourself wishing you could tackle? What is self-doubt telling you to give up on?
Whatever it is, I believe in you; you can do it. You are ready enough; you are capable. Fear is normal, but it doesn’t have to run the show. If not you, then who?
