Stop Overthinking. Quiet The Mental Noise- Tap into your Inner Wisdom and become the expert you need right now.
Connecting with and engaging your audience is a big part of establishing a new business. Marketing, such as designing your brand & website, social media, newsletter, etc., can translate to many hours of writing, which I enjoy, and even find relaxing. However, I struggled with writer's block for the past few months. I wanted to write an inaugural blog post for my new website. I felt the pressure, self-induced, of course, to write something “perfect.” The sort of thing that says, “Welcome, so happy you are here, this is me, and what I do, I hope you find something useful & oh yes, please stay.” My internal dialogue was kind enough to say, "You must write something popular, relatable, interesting, well-written, funny, and smart. It must have all the bells and whistles and be…perfect" Ay caramba! I was overthinking and primarily looking to external sources (e.g., social media, friends, etc.) for ideas and feedback. I was starting to drive myself a little bit (no, a lot) crazy, analyzing every thought and not committing to one. This was anything but relaxing!
Established writers often give this standard advice; "write what you know." It is a simple and logical suggestion. If you have knowledge of a particular subject through firsthand experience, study, personal interest, etc., then you may have something valuable to say about it. Fast forward several weeks (no, months) into my inability to form a written word, I finally got quiet & “heard” it. "You know what to write”, go inward, listen to yourself. Remember you are your own expert. Write what you know!". I said it out loud to myself a few times. I was NOT doing what I find to be my most valuable life hack. Experience has shown me that when I listen to and trust myself, life flows, and when I don't, a struggle ensues.
Transparency and authenticity are essential to me. After many years on autopilot as a working parent, there has been little time for thoughtful introspection. Currently, in midlife & with teenagers, I now have slightly more time to reengage in this process. So what I write today is that I ALWAYS know what is best for me. No matter the outcome, I am authentic by listening to ME. Emotionally I feel happier and empowered—my mental health benefits as well, with less anxiety & improved mood. Ignoring my voice/ intuitive self, I am moving boulders. Things don't work.
Using your intuitive self is a tool available to EVERYONE. Liken it to developing a new skill, starting a hobby, or exercise plan, it takes time to see results. With a commitment made to yourself, patience & consistency, you can get there.
Welcome, so happy you are here. Please stay 😊
Denise
