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Does your heart skip a beat when someone casually asks, “How’s your business going?” or “What are you working on?” If you’re like I used to be, you might play it down or keep it vague, sticking to a safe, polished answer.
With the holidays around the corner, you know Aunt Jan will be at the table, ready to share her opinion about your ‘little business.’ So in this episode, we’re getting real about the power of owning your story—no fluff, no sidestepping, just full-on confidence in what you’re creating!
We’re diving into how to talk about your work in a way that’s simple and authentic, how to release the need for outside validation, and how to celebrate your wins without holding back.
If you’re ready to put your passion front and center and head into the new year with a fresh sense of purpose, let’s jump in and share what really makes your business shine!
1. Clearly Communicate Your Vision (Without Overwhelm)
When you’re sharing what you do, keep it clear and simple. It’s less about the business model and more about your passion for what you’re building. Focus on who you’re helping, and the results you’re creating—that’s what will resonate!
Tip 1: Own Your Story: Craft a simple, clear way to talk about their business. For example, share the why behind what you do and who you serve, rather than getting bogged down in the technical details. Think of it like a mini elevator pitch, but with heart—something like, “I help [your audience] solve [a problem] by [your solution].”
When I started out as a photographer, I was self-taught, didn’t have formal training, and I felt like I didn’t ‘belong’ in the industry. But here’s the thing: I didn’t wait until I had it all figured out to start.
I started messy and shared what I was doing with confidence. So, whether you’re still learning or you feel like you’re just beginning, own that. It’s not about perfection; it’s about passion!
Tip 2: Use Relatable Language: When talking to family or friends who may not understand the industry or the lingo, it’s key to keep it conversational. Focus on the impact of what you do.
Say something like, “I’m passionate about [your work] because it helps people [specific result].” This keeps the conversation light but meaningful.
2. Release the Need for Validation (And Let Go of Judgment)
Remember, not everyone will understand the path you’re on, and that’s okay! Your dream doesn’t need to make sense to everyone—it just needs to matter to you. So, give yourself permission to show up confidently and stay anchored in your ‘why.’
Tip 3: Not Everyone Will Get It, and That’s Okay: This is a huge mindset shift: your dreams aren’t up for debate, and you don’t need everyone’s approval to succeed. I want you to know that your vision is valid even if others don’t fully see it!
For example, I remember when I decided to leave my corporate job. There were so many raised eyebrows and questions. People thought I was crazy for leaving what looked like a ‘stable career’ to pursue my own thing. And I could’ve let that stop me, but I had this vision that kept pulling me forward.
If you’re in that place where you feel like you’re swimming against the current—know this: the only validation you need is your own belief in your dream.
“But here’s the thing about visions and callings: it’s not anyone else’s job to understand yours. It’s no one else’s responsibility to know it before you do, give it to you, or figure it out for you. Others can and will help. But the source must be you. If someone fails to see or relate to your aspirations, it’s often because they aren’t as close to your journey as you are—and that’s perfectly fine.
A calling or a desired way of living is usually subtle, not a loud proclamation. It can be challenging to articulate these feelings succinctly, particularly when you’re still navigating your path. Often, we explore these deeper questions in intimate spaces, where we can confide, seek understanding, and reveal different facets of ourselves. It’s in these moments of vulnerability that we can truly connect and find clarity in our visions.”
– From my book, How Are You, Really?
Tip 4: Build Inner Confidence by Celebrating Milestones: One way to let go of judgment is to ground yourself in what you know to be true. I encourage you to celebrate your wins—big and small. The confidence you’ll gain from knowing your own progress is what truly matters!
3. Celebrate Your Success (Without Downplaying It)
Don’t downplay your success to make others comfortable. Own it. Lead with gratitude for how far you’ve come and the lives you’re impacting. You’re not bragging—you’re simply sharing the fruits of your hard work, and that’s worth celebrating!
Tip 5: Normalize Owning Your Success: The holidays are a prime time to be around family and friends, and the temptation to downplay your accomplishments is real. But this is your chance to shift the narrative!
I encourage you to share your wins, no matter how big or small. A great way to do this is by linking success to the impact you’re making.
Tip 6: Lead with Gratitude: Another way to frame your success stories is by sharing your gratitude for the journey. This way, it’s not about bragging—it’s about being proud of the work you’ve put in and the results that have followed.
When you talk about your progress from a place of gratitude, it feels authentic and grounded in appreciation!
I’ve always been transparent about my numbers, my wins, and the challenges. And the truth is, sharing my story hasn’t just helped me—it’s helped others see what’s possible for them too.
So when you’re talking about your success, lead with gratitude for the journey. Be proud of what you’ve built because your story might just be the one that inspires someone else.
Share Away!
Remember, how you share your story can transform the way people connect with your business! As we wrap up, I want you to reflect on the conversations you’ll have over the holidays—whether it’s Aunt Jan asking about your career or a casual chat with a friend.
Use this opportunity to confidently communicate your vision, embrace your journey, and celebrate your wins without holding back.
Let your passion shine through every word. You’ve got this, Goal Digger!
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