How to Find the Courage to Change: My Path to Success

Why Are We Afraid of Change?

Change accompanies us throughout our lives, but paradoxically it still makes us fearful. I myself have been in a situation many times where the courage to take a step into the unknown seemed unattainable. Fear of failure, lack of acceptance or loss of stability can be paralysing.

But as Eleanor Roosevelt said:

"We gain strength, courage and confidence through every experience where we really face the fear head-on... we have to do what seems impossible."

It was the changes that opened doors for me that I didn't even know existed. In this article, I want to share my experiences and show how I dared to make changes that led me to where I am today.

My biggest challenge

One of the key moments in my life was leaving a stable, well-paid corporate job. I was comfortable, but I felt something was missing. I wanted more than to fulfil goals that were not mine. The decision to leave was a huge risk, but it was the first step towards authenticity.

I remember feeling a mixture of excitement and fear. One day I was full of enthusiasm, the next I had doubts. However, today I treat challenges as learning opportunities rather than obstacles.

The Process of Change: How Did I Overcome Fear?

1. Make yourself aware of your goals
   It was crucial to understand what I really wanted to achieve. Without a concrete vision, it would have been hard for me to take a chance. I asked myself questions:
   • What makes me feel joy?
   • What do I want to change in my life?
   • What are my dreams?
2. Support from Relatives
   Without my loved ones and mentors, I probably wouldn't have taken this step. Their words gave me strength. One of the most important pieces of advice I heard was a quote, and it read:
   

"Don't give up trying to do what you really want to do. Where there is love and inspiration, you can't go wrong."

- Ella Fitzgerald.

Since then, Ella has become one of my inspirations.

Preparation of Plan B
Risks can always be minimised. With proper planning, I knew I had other options in case of failure. I started with small steps that built my financial and emotional security.

Effects of Courage: What Have I Gained?

After deciding to change my professional life, I experienced not only professional success but also personal fulfilment. I started working on projects that are close to my heart, supporting and inspiring other women. Each change has put me on the path to even greater growth.

The biggest gain, however, was freedom. The decision to let go of what was familiar and safe allowed me to rediscover myself and find meaning in my daily activities.

Your Path to Change

Each of us has the power within us to change our lives. Sometimes it just takes a small push to dare to take the first step. I encourage you to reflect:

• What do you really want?
• What is holding you back?
• Who can help you?

Take a piece of paper and a pen. Write down one small action you can take today to get closer to your goal. It could be a phone call to a mentor, signing up for a course or setting yourself a goal for the coming week.

Remember that you are not alone in your journey. The support of a mentor, loved ones or a community with similar goals can work wonders.

Summary

The courage to change is a step towards authenticity and fulfilment. My path has been challenging, but each hardship has brought amazing new opportunities. As Maria Skłodowska-Curie said:
"One has to have perseverance and belief in oneself. You have to believe that a person is capable of something and achieve it at any cost."

I now know that courage is the key to success. How about you? What will you do to find your own path?
Are you ready to take matters into your own hands and start making changes?
I invite you to join the conversation - together we can find your path to success. 😊