Developing a Relationship With Fear Is What it Takes to Succeed in Business Says Entrepreneurship Expert
Angelina Darrisaw
Helping Organizations Build More Inclusive Business Practices; Organizational Consulting & Enterprise Coaching Services
I was recently able to chat with the marketing guru behind so many of the My Black Is Beautiful campaign executions I was involved in. Teneshia Jackson Warner is not only a marketing expert, but also an expert on entrepreneurship, hosting an annual conference for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Here is an excerpt from my article which appeared in the the Huffington Post.
Teneshia had reservations and fears, but she moved in spite of them. In her work with entrepreneurs, she encourages them to do the same, "If you know you are currently walking a path that you know isn't your purpose path and won't be fulfilling for you, you could end up living a life that's not fulfilling and doesn't have meaning." She reflects one of her favorite quotes by Anaïs Nin, "And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom," and says she was able to leap knowing "what was on the other side was much greater than the comfort zone."
Whether you're an entrepreneur or a working professional, Teneshia suggests knowing how to move in the face of fear. "I think people need to develop a relationship with fear. You have to! It's there, it doesn't go anywhere," She laughs, "I don't want to say I'm friends with fear, but we have a relationship where I know when it comes into my body. I don't try to run from it. I give it its space to be fear but then I have to choose to move forward in the face of that fear."
Teneshia notes fear is a constant in her life, but refuses to let it immobilize her. "I'm fearful a lot and it's always a sign that you're up to something big. If you're just moving around and you rarely feel a moment of fear, you are probably playing it too safe." Getting comfortable with fear comes down to positive self-talk. "When I bid for pieces for businesses, the fear is right there. 'Am I good enough? Am I ready? Are our capabilities strong enough?' When the "am I good enough" conversation is there, you have to program yourself to have another conversation to speak back to the voice of fear in your head.">
Really powerful words by Teneshia. Read the full article here.
Strategic Project Manager l Process Integrator l Health & Wellness Enthusiast
8yAngelina Darrisaw this was an AMAZING post!!
Strategic Communications/Public Relations leader focused on delivering outstanding earned media and business results in the Luxury, Lifestyle, Fashion, Beauty, and Entertainment industries
8yThis is a powerful piece, Angelina Darrisaw. Teneshia will always be the way our dots connected. Isn't that nice?
Director, Talent Acquisition - News & Sports at Warner Bros. Discovery
8yThis is an excellent article. I can absolutely relate. Fear is a thief that pickpockets dreams.
Executive Assistant to Chief Commercial Officer, Trimont
8yYes...the False Evidence Appearing Real keeps many of us stuck. We need to get more comfortable with it...What's the worst that can happen? They say 'no'? You don't get the job? No does not mean never...it just means not right now, or not the right person or place. In any case fear holds us back with all the dreadful imaginings that never come to fruition. Face the fear and do it anyway. Right on, Angelina!