Are you wondering who made that statement? It is from non other than the courageous Pippi Longstocking. Pippi was and still is the embodiment of spontaneity, courage, confidence, humour and action for both young and old.

“I’ve never tried that before, but I am sure I can do it.” So simple and clear. It comes directly from one’s confidence and courage zone. I love it.

When did you last dare to make such a statement? I often see great hesitancy from people towards the New and Unknown, especially when it comes to their work life. Having worked with people on designing their career paths for many years now, it very rarely happens that I see people being open and having the courage to face the unknown. They feel secure when surrounded by familiarity and in their comfort zone. A lot of people tend to stick too often and too long to the belief: “This is what I have been doing and this is where I see myself in the future.”  

I know, I know, reality may be a bit more complex than Pippi Longstocking’s life, but nevertheless it is all about the energy and empowerment that we can create for ourselves. It’s all about what CAN be done as opposed to what CANNOT. It’s all about going out and exploring the unknown as opposed to being afraid about what could go wrong.

 Here are a few tips on how to adapt the “I am sure I can do it” strategy:

Fear is the enemy of moving forward and progress. Don’t just accept those fears, but look them in the eye. What really lies behind them?

Permit yourself to make mistakes. Progress happens when you try, fall and get up again and when you learn from those mistakes. Can you imagine being in the kind of work and living the type of life that for the most part takes place in your safety and comfort zone? You would always be on the look out for what could have been and would regret the fact that you never had the courage to dare to find out.

Take some time to reflect. Analyse your strengths, success stories and achievements. Draw from this extensive resource pool. 

Constantly flex build and your courage and self-confidence“muscles” by discovering the unknown despite the possibility of rejection. You can and will grow more than you can possibly imagine.

Grab those windows of opportunity. As Richard Branson says: “If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity, but you are not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later.”

Take the courage to move forward by doing something that you have not done before on a regular basis. It will boost your courage and confidence levels and help you to achieve your goals.