My 11 year old daughter told me a few weeks ago about an idea that excited her. At her school, they were collecting money for the organization Toys for Tots. I thought she was going to ask me for money to donate, but instead she said she wanted to make artwork to sell and give the money she earned. That idea started an animated, excited conversation about how she wanted to do a YouTube video, but she was scared that her friends would make fun of her.I told her that I knew how she felt. She went on to tell me about a girl on YouTube that she follows who is famous and has over a million followers. I could see the excitement in her eyes. She went on to explain that this girl just talks about what is going on in her life and people love to follow her. I could see that she wanted her voice to be heard, too. Our conversation turned back to her artwork. She asked if we could do a Facebook Live. I said that was a great idea! I think she suddenly realized what she had said. She stopped and asked me how it would work. She said she wanted me to do the talking. I told her that it would be better if she explained what she was doing. I could see the hesitation on her face. I asked her if it would be okay if I interviewed her, and her face brightened up again. We went to the craft store and got supplies for her painting project. When we got back home, she set her stuff up and began painting. I was getting Facebook Live ready, and she said that she was excited and nervous at the same time. I smiled and told her I knew how she felt, and that feeling was always how I knew that I was going in the right direction. This little experience reminded me of what we all go through from time to time - a great idea, excitement, fear about what others might think, and then doubt in being able to share it. It's natural to feel some resistance come up, and it is often accompanied by excuses and head talk: I can't do that, people might think it's dumb, I don't really have time, it probably won't work, it's scary, etc.Grace found a way to keep going as she felt that resistance. As we talked about me interviewing her, she felt heard and supported and she totally rocked her first Facebook Live. She got started on her paintings right away! After the first two, she got discouraged, coming up with excuses why she couldn't go on. I suggested she take a break. I think she was feeling overwhelmed. She came back a little while later with new enthusiasm and creativity! I love the life lessons in this experience:1 - Pay attention to those creative ideas, follow your heart and just give it a try!2 - Take one step at a time.3 - When resistance comes up, chase away the head talk. Get support and encouragement from someone who believes in you.4 - If you get discouraged or overwhelmed, just take a break and come back to it a little later. Just come back!5 - Trust your idea and the excitement you first had to help keep you going!. Ups and downs in life are normal. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and support you. Be the person that believes in and supports others!Now, go build and live your dreams!
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