Hello!
I’ve just returned home from an incredible trip to Bali! I spent a week at a masterminding retreat for women entrepreneurs on the outskirts of Bali’s cultural hub, the city of Ubud. Twenty of us gathered at a gorgeous retreat center to learn from and support one another as we build our heart-centered businesses. I went into the retreat with few expectations, a lot of anticipation, nervousness, and admittedly some self-doubt. I’ve had my own business for more than 6 years, but over the past year I’ve had to get comfortable being new again in the realm of spiritual entrepreneurship. Though I’ve unofficially been mentoring friends (and strangers!) for years, really claiming my identity as a coach has not necessarily been easy. As I participated in the retreat and really got to know the women in the group, I was amazed at what I learned from being in their presence; it was definitely not what I expected. I’m sharing a few of my lessons in hopes that they may resonate with you and your experiences in your life, career, and business.
The first thing I learned was that we don’t always know what we know!
This has been one of the most valuable lessons for me personally. Many of us take our gifts for granted without realizing that what we know does not come easily to everyone! For me, this reminder came after I lead the group in my leadership piece, a mini version of one of the exercises I do in my “How To Network Like a Pro” workshops.
My heart was pounding and my breathing was shallow as I began to lead my fellow entrepreneurs through an exercise that would allow them to authentically connect with other women in the room, while expressing what they need in their businesses. I had convinced myself that my offering was stupid and that everyone already knew what I had to teach. As part of our leadership exercises, our coach provided feedback, as well as asked for feedback from the group. I was amazed at what I heard! Oh my gosh people learned a LOT from my brief lesson. Isn’t it incredible how much our inner critic holds us back?
What do you know that you may be taking for granted because it comes so naturally to you?
What does your inner critic say and how can you turn it around?
Where may you be holding back and keeping people from learning from YOU?
(If you’re trying to figure out how to create a business out of your innate talents, please reach out to me at hello@emilyutter.com!)
The second thing I learned was the importance of breakdowns.
I realize that may sound strange. Many of us expend a lot of energy trying to avoid breakdowns and negative emotions. One thing I’ve learned is that breakdowns always precede breakthroughs. Anyone who has attended a personal or professional development workshop can probably relate to the massive transformation that can happen in a short period of time. It can be disorienting, confusing, and downright scary. To be quite honest, I had more than a couple breakdowns during my time in Bali. But the thing is, I wouldn’t take any of them back. When we’re trying to make BIG changes in our lives, stuff comes up- that’s unavoidable. As I allowed my breakdowns (Fear of success! Fear of failure!) to wash over me, at times even crying into my tempeh (yes, that happened), I had the most remarkable breakthroughs. I was met with a sense of calm after letting myself bubble over with the fear and tears.
Where might you be holding back from a breakdown? Are you willing to just let it happen to see what might be on the other side?
The third thing I learned was the need to take action in the face of uncertainty.
Struggling from time to time with procrastination is a common experience. Especially when we’re navigating something new, it can be easy to craft any number of creative excuses to keep us out of the game. (I’m tired, I don’t feel well, I’ll be ready to do that once x,y, or z happens…) The truth is, success in our careers or businesses is not possible without taking some serious action, taking some risks, and investing in ourselves. While I was in Bali, I created a real plan for myself that will help me grow my business in the way I want to, that will allow me to serve more people, while creating a sustainable income flow for myself. This brings up a ton of resistance! It would be much easier to just stay on vacation for the rest of my life, right? But the truth is, I know I’ve got a lot more to offer than sipping fresh coconuts on the beach every day for eternity, so the time is truly NOW.
What actions are you putting aside that if you just implemented them, would help you move more quickly to what you truly want in your career or business?
How can you create space and time to just GET IT DONE?
Thanks for letting me share a bit of my journey with you. I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Lots of love,
Emily
p.s. I’d love to chat if you are looking for support in your own career or business. I’ve got limited spots available for complimentary 30 minute How to Turn Your Passion into Profit Business Strategy Sessions. If you’re feeling ready for ACTION, I want to speak with you! Just reply to this email with the subject line, “Let’s do this!”
p.p.s. For those of you in the Bay Area, I’d love to see you at my next “How To Network Like a Pro” workshop in San Francisco on November 19th.