What’s The Worst That Can Happen?
Last month, I was trying to decide whether to go to an event or not. It was a long drive. I’d had a busy week. I wasn’t sure what the benefits of attending might be. While going back and forth considering the pros and cons, I naturally procrastinated by using the decision as an opportunity to catch up with various people. Someone said to me, ‘It’s better to regret what you have done than what you haven’t.’ YOLO words of wisdom from Paul Arden.
I’m not sure it’s 100% true ( I am never going to regret not going bungee jumping – and yes, I hate heights). What is really interesting for me is that it offers a way to explore the value of doing something. Even if that something turns out to be dull, disastrous or a complete non-event.
It’s a concept that the Dr Pepper marketing team liked so much they based an ad campaign on it.
If you liked that, there’s a compilation of the What’s The Worst That Could Happen ads.
Let’s be optimistic
I think we can be a lot more optimistic than Doctor Pepper. There’s a lot you can influence if you just put yourself out there. You never know what will happen.
Networking, pitching and applying for awards are all areas where people are reluctant put themselves forward. Which prompts the coach and mentor in me to start exploring why.
What’s holding you back? Fear of the unknown? Thinking that you don’t belong? We put people and places on a pedestal. We think that’s not for the likes of me.
This year I’ve been to Downing Street and the House of Lords. I’ve met Jonathan Reynolds, Rachel Reeves and Keir Starmer. Not because I’m particularly special but because I choose this year to put myself out there.
For those of you who have read this far, stop holding yourself back. Share what you have to offer with the world. Not everyone will get it. That’s fine. This is part of finding your audience.
It might be as simple as giving yourself permission to share on social media more often, or go to a networking group and feel you have a right to be there.
Maybe it’s about entering for awards, getting involved with programmes in your industry or taking action on that product you’ve wanted to offer for years but always been a bit uncertain about.
Give yourself a boost
If that all feels too much, I’ve got another suggestion. So many of my clients report a boost in confidence from working with me. So could you work with a mentor to help build your belief in yourself? Or find out what training and upskilling offers are available in your area.
I’ve got one final idea too. Pick up that random pad of sticky notes from your desk. Grab a pen and write the following in bold letter: What’s the worst that can happen? Stick to your monitor or somewhere you’ll see it regularly. Then refer back to it when you think you’re not good enough and maybe do the thing anyway.
Unless it’s bungee jumping (other height-based activities to avoid are available).
