Growing up in Uruguay, during a dictatorship was really scary…

And within that frightening environment, expressing myself was simply terrifying!

During 15 years, people were sent to jail for saying the wrong thing. And as a young girl, I had no idea what that wrong thing was…

With my survival instinct fully awaken, I became a master at hiding myself in plain sight. I learned to shut my mouth and to be pleasing, even though my anger sometimes burst out in the strangest ways.

So, what started as a coping mechanism, something my young self used to feel safe, later became my prison. And by the time the dictatorship ended, and people started expressing themselves freely again, I wasn’t able to do it! Every time I thought I had talked too much, I would become very anxious.

I convinced myself that I didn’t want to be seen, that I served better from the shadows. That the forefront wasn’t for me…

But that was a big fat lie!

My biggest desire, the dream I never shared with anybody, the scene that I played in my head every day before going to sleep, was me speaking on a big stage. I could see myself motivating women and helping them transform their lives. I saw their beautiful smiles and knew I had made a difference. I felt my heart expand, filling me with joy.

I knew then, that the best version of myself was awaiting, just on the other side of my fear…

So, how could I turn this around?

Finding my voice was the first step. Learning from people I admire and asking them to coach me, came next. And just like that I started recording videos and posting them on social media, I created online courses and started speaking in small stages!

The first few times I literally felt like I was dying, but little by little, I started feeling a level of joy and fulfillment I had never felt before…

These days I am working with a speaking coach who is helping me craft my story. The goal is to start booking online stages until I get really good at it. And even though I’m terrified, I know there is a huge reward awaiting me on the other side of my fear.

So, how does this apply to you?

Here is the thing, we all have fears, big and small, that can hold us back from becoming the best versions of ourselves. But what if, like it happened to me, the very thing holding you back could also be the key to unlocking your full potential?

What if your biggest fear wasn’t something to run from, but instead a challenge to overcome? What if by facing your fear head-on, you could discover a new level of strength, resilience, and self-awareness?

Now, I’m not suggesting that you should throw yourself into a situation that terrifies you without caution or preparation. Fear can be a powerful emotion that serves as a warning sign, telling you to be careful and avoid danger. But what I am suggesting is that by reframing your fear and approaching it with compassion and playfulness, you can begin to transform it into a source of inspiration and motivation.

1. So, let’s start by visualizing the best version of yourself. What does that person look like? What are their goals, dreams, and aspirations? How do they show up in the world, and what impact do they have on those around them?

2. Now, imagine that this best version of yourself is living behind your biggest fear. What would it take for you to overcome that fear and step into your full potential? Perhaps it’s a fear of failure, rejection, or inadequacy. Maybe it’s a fear of vulnerability, intimacy, or loss. Whatever it may be, know that you are not alone in experiencing it, and that there is no shame in acknowledging and working through your fears.

3. Compassion is key when facing our fears. It’s easy to get caught up in self-criticism and negative self-talk, but this only serves to reinforce your fears and keep you stuck. Instead, approach yourself with kindness and understanding, just as you would a close friend or loved one. Recognize that it’s okay to be scared, and that it’s a natural part of the growth process. Treat yourself with the same love and compassion that you would offer to someone else.

4. Playfulness is another powerful tool when it comes to facing your fears. Instead of taking yourself too seriously, try to approach your fears with a sense of curiosity and wonder. Ask yourself questions like, “What’s the worst that could happen?” and “What can I learn from this experience?” Adopting a playful mindset can help you to shift your perspective and see our fears in a new light.

5. Finally, let’s talk about inspiration. When you face your fears and step out of your comfort zones, you open yourself up to new possibilities and experiences. You discover hidden strengths and talents, and you realize that you are capable of so much more than you ever thought possible. This newfound inspiration can fuel you on your journey towards becoming the best versions of yourself.

So, my challenge to you is this today:

1. take a step towards facing your biggest fear. It doesn’t have to be a giant leap, but even a small step can make a big difference.

2. Approach yourself with compassion, playfulness, and a sense of curiosity, and let yourself be inspired by what you discover.

The best version of yourself is waiting just behind that fear – all you have to do is take the first step towards unlocking it.

If I was able to do it, so could you!

PS: If you want to become a part of my community, join my private Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/319955443394661