“You always have two choices: your commitment versus your fear.” Sammy Davis Jr
It's been a year since I published Positive Money - 7 Principles for Living a Rich Life. I remember how excited I was to click on the button that made it live. On the one hand, I was thrilled to release something I'd been working on for a year and thinking about for many more. On the other hand, I felt vulnerable and afraid of criticism and judgment.
This is a familiar dance, especially for creatives. Watching the Oscars on Sunday night, I thought about how each of those honored or not had to navigate between their commitment to their vision and their fear — fear of failure, fear of being judged, fear of the valuable time, energy, and resources going to waste.
I know this dance well. I two-step with self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the deeper question of “Who am I to…?” on the daily. As a creative person with big and sometimes zany ideas, I’ve had to find the right rhythm between my introvert and my extrovert, my professional and personal self, and my commitment versus my fear. For example, I've wanted for years to set up a therapy booth in a public space much like Lucy does in the Peanuts cartoon. For 5 cents, people could sit down and share one financial challenge or concern.
I have no question about the vision or the impact it might have. However, the fear of being seen and all the obstacles I throw in my path make me wonder if I will ever be brave enough.
Commitment Versus Fear
Thankfully, the commitments we make to ourselves and others can be a powerful tool for mitigating our fears even if they persist. For example, my commitment to the Positive Money principles and practices helps give purpose to my day and work because I know how:
So many struggle to feel confident about money despite their best efforts.
Money shame can disable and even be deadly.
It can be hard to talk about money at home and work.
The lack of financial literacy combined with a growing complexity in the personal finance industry makes financial decision-making more difficult and overwhelming.
The pressure to have or do more can cause harm, especially if the first four listed above is at play.
If you can relate, I highly recommend buying a copy of my book. It is a solid place to start. If you're curious about how it all works, sign up for the next Introduction to Positive Money offered for free every month.
In the meantime, next time you have a zany idea, maybe check it against your commitment to the end game and see which one wins.
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