Brave Enough to Leap, Scared Enough to Plan
Navigating Bold Career Moves
Leadership, like life, is a series of choices. Some are small and calculated; others are vast and daunting, the kind that makes your heart race and your palms sweat. It's these moments of decision—the leap into the unknown—that define our careers and lives.
But here's the thing: bravery alone isn't enough. The leaders who succeed in taking bold leaps also acknowledge their fears, embrace them, and use them as fuel to create a plan.
"You can choose courage, or you can choose comfort, but you cannot have both." - Brené Brown
Courage is stepping forward; Fear is the compass that ensures your step lands on solid ground.
Why Bravery and Fear Go Hand-in-Hand
Bravery is the spark that ignites action, the voice that says, "You can do this." On the other hand, Fear often gets a bad reputation—but it's an essential guide. It sharpens your focus, urges preparation, and reminds you of the stakes. Together, bravery and Fear are a powerful duo.
When you feel that tug of excitement mixed with trepidation, pay attention. That's your signal to leap—but not without a parachute.
"The boldest leaders aren’t fearless; they’re just brave enough to move forward despite their fears."
Practical Steps to Take the Leap with Confidence
1. Get Clear on Your "Why"
Before you leap, anchor yourself in purpose. Why is this move important to you? How does it align with your core values and long-term goals?
Action Step: Journal about the change you're considering. Ask yourself: What excites me about this? What scares me? What's the bigger purpose driving this decision?
2. Turn Fear into a Roadmap
Fear isn't a barrier—it's a guide. Identify what's making you hesitate and address those concerns head-on.
Action Step: Write down your fears. For each one, brainstorm solutions or safety nets. For example, if you fear financial instability, create a budget or savings plan.
3. Create a Strategic Plan
Big leaps don't have to be reckless. A well-thought-out plan turns bold moves into calculated risks.
Action Step: Break your goal into smaller steps. Set milestones, timelines, and accountability measures. Who can support you? What resources do you need?
4. Build Your Support System
No leap should be taken alone. Surround yourself with people who uplift, challenge, and guide you.
Action Step: Share your goals with trusted mentors, colleagues, or a leadership mastermind group. Their insights and encouragement can be invaluable.
5. Take the First Step—Then Keep Going
The scariest part of any leap is the first step. Once you've planned, it's time to act. Even small, consistent actions build momentum.
Action Step: Commit to one action this week that moves you closer to your goal, whether reaching out to a contact, updating your resume, or scheduling a meeting.
Leadership is About Growth
Leadership isn't about having all the answers; it's about embracing growth. Growth demands bravery to step into the unknown and wisdom to prepare for the journey.
"Fear isn't a sign you shouldn't leap—it's a reminder to leap wisely."
Your Next Big Leap
This is your sign if you've been feeling that pull to do something bigger—whether it's a career pivot, a promotion, or starting your own venture. Be brave enough to envision it. Be scared enough to plan it. Then, take the leap.
"Every bold decision begins with a quiet moment of clarity. Pause, reflect, and then take the leap."
Looking for Support?
Our 2025 Leadership Mastermind is designed for leaders ready to make bold moves with purpose and support. In small, curated cohorts, we'll help you align your goals, build your plan, and take action with clarity and confidence.
🚨 Spots are almost full! Only 3 seats left in the Tuesday cohort.
📅 Kickoff is January 14.
👉 Learn More and Enroll Here
You don't have to leap alone. Together, let's make 2025 your year of transformation.
“The greatest leaders invest in themselves first—not out of selfishness, but because their growth becomes the foundation for others to stand on.”
🚨 Spots are almost full! Only 3 seats left in the Tuesday cohort.
📅 Kickoff is January 14.
👉 Learn More and Enroll Here
Resources to Dive Deeper
Books
"The Art of Career Transitions" – Harvard Business Review: Insights on making thoughtful career pivots while mitigating risks. Read here
"How to Overcome Fear and Make Career Changes" – Forbes: Practical advice for embracing fear and turning it into a strength. Read here
"Designing Your Life" – Stanford d.school Blog: Explore actionable frameworks for planning significant life and career changes. Read here
"Dare to Lead" by Brené Brown: A guide to brave leadership and leaning into vulnerability during big decisions. Find it here
"The First 90 Days" by Michael D. Watkins: A tactical approach to navigating career transitions successfully. Find it here
"Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear" by Elizabeth Gilbert: Inspiration for embracing fear and taking bold steps in your career and life. #0812F2
Podcasts
The Career Change Podcast: Practical strategies for transitioning careers and overcoming fears. Listen here
How I Built This with Guy Raz: Stories from innovators and entrepreneurs who took brave leaps. Listen here
WorkLife with Adam Grant: Explore topics like rethinking careers, resilience, and intentional decision-making. Listen here
Frameworks
StrengthsFinder Assessment – Gallup: Identify your strengths to build confidence and focus in your career decisions. Access here
Ikigai Diagram: A framework to align your career with passion, mission, vocation, and profession. Explore here
Courses
LinkedIn Learning: Navigating Career Change: Video lessons on managing transitions and building actionable plans. Learn here
2025 Leadership Mastermind Program: A curated program for leaders ready to take bold career steps with support and strategy. Join here
The Big Leap
The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks is the perfect guide for leaders ready to overcome self-imposed limits and embrace their full potential.
Why We Love It
This inspiring read introduces the "Upper Limit Problem" and provides practical tools to move into your "Zone of Genius," where your talents and passions align.
Key Insights for Leaders
Recognize and overcome the fears holding you back.
Focus on your strengths to achieve lasting impact.
Build confidence to make bold moves and thrive.
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"Growth isn’t found in comfort; it’s forged in the moments we dare to stretch beyond what we think we can do."
-Leadership Mastery Network
