When I started my company Elevate People Solutions in August 2020, I did so during the height of the pandemic. My plan had been set in motion to pursue my dream of becoming an entrepreneur at the beginning of that year. I had been working toward finishing my certification to become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Speaker, Trainer, and Coach. I had even told my boss at the time of my plans to resign later in the year and start my business. I was gearing up and finally going to do this thing.
Then it happened. In March 2020 the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a global health emergency and the world began to shut down. Schools closed. companies were forced to shut their doors. Many businesses across the country saw their supply chains interrupted, demand for their products and services decline, shortages in supplies and inputs, and government-mandated closures. Unemployment was at an all-time high.
Fear gripped my heart just as you would grip a steering wheel to avoid an accident. it held me tight. I began to tell myself a few stories: “There’s no way I can start a business now.” “This is the worst time to start a business.” “We can’t afford to start a business now.” “It would be selfish of me to pursue this path with so much uncertainty at this point.” I believed my dream had been deferred.
My husband Rodney was a great inspiration to me during this time. He encouraged me to continue down the path and not give up. “Don’t worry about the finances. We will figure it out and we’ll be fine,” he said to me. It’s a blessing having someone in your corner who sees your potential and pushes you further than you think you’re capable of going.
I also recalled the words of Paul Martinelli, co-founder of The John Maxwell Team – and one of my mentors who routinely said, “Do it afraid.” And so I did it.
Fearful. Terrified. Worried.
At times uncertain how things would turn out. But, I’m so glad I did it. My business has been a financial blessing to my family. But, more importantly, I feel like I am living my purpose by adding value to others. So, I say to you: DO IT AFRAID! If your dreams don’t scare you they are too small.
Speaking of doing it afraid, I’m hosting the John Maxwell Live2Lead global leadership simulcast for the first time on October 26, 2023.
Again, I have thoughts of uncertainty. What ifs have become my theme song? What if I fail? What if people don’t show up? What if things don’t go as planned? But I’m going for it because I believe this event will be a blessing to our community. It’s going to bless you! You will be equipped with the insight and tools you need to grow as a leader and grow your business.
I look forward to greeting you on October 26th! Register now: https://bit.ly/3NQIpKa
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Sheila Eason is the founder and CEO of Elevate People Solutions, LLC, and is a Maxwell Leadership Certified Leadership Development Coach, Speaker, and Trainer. With more than 25 years of experience helping organizations leverage their human capital to its maximum potential, she has been instrumental in developing and training thousands of leaders seeking to improve their leadership skills. With expertise in leadership development, leadership, and executive coaching, organization development, DISC consulting, and training, Sheila brings specific solutions as well as her experience to real-life scenarios.