What I Tell Myself When I Want to Quit

We made it through another week! Take a second to celebrate yourself because you have done something incredibly difficult for many of us: you didn't give up.

Have you ever been in a situation where escape felt virtually impossible? Naturally, the easiest thing to do is tap out. It may feel that way today, or it might hit you weeks from now.

The Secret: If you are willing to do the hardest thing ever—finding the inner strength to face that hurdle head-on—you will persevere.

The Legacy of "No Quitting"

When I become overwhelmed or feel “stuck,” I draw on the memories of my mother and the great strength she possessed. “Quitting” was not in her vocabulary. She worked hard, and despite the many obstacles she faced, she never gave up on life or the possibility of achievement. I was blessed to have her in my corner to give me that extra push.

Breaking the People-Pleasing Cage

However, I realized that I was allowing the opinions of others and my own tendency to be a "people-pleaser" to keep me from pursuing my goals. If you find yourself afraid to pursue your passions because you feel family or friends have your life under a microscope, I highly recommend "The Let Them Theory" by Mel Robbins. She explains that you can’t control people’s behavior or what they say, so... "let them." You can’t control the actions of others, but don’t let their opinions be a hindrance to you living your best life.

Don't Join the Doubters

We have plenty of people in our circle willing to place doubt in our path. They might tell you that you can't start that business, or that you're making a mistake by living abroad or leaving an employer after 20 years of unfulfillment.

Whatever you do, don’t add yourself to that list of doubters. Every morning, I read a quote by Laird Hamilton:

"Make sure your worst enemy doesn’t live between your own two ears." We are often our own worst critics. Don’t let "you" be the reason you don’t pursue your goals. Don’t talk yourself out of your dreams.

Don’t quit!

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