Dear fwm: Tom Volkar on Changing Gears

Thanks to all who have sent questions to us through our DearFwm email (and keep them coming!). We can’t wait until fwm launches so that we can regularly feature these dilemmas, with solutions from our fwm expert contributors. Here’s a sample of what’s in store: fwm Community Member Mia Smith sent us this question, and we’ve asked fwm expert contributor Tom Volkar to jump in and answer. Mia’s question deals with something so many of us face--gathering the courage to take flight in a new career direction. Tom is a career coach, writer, and blogger who specializes in helping people realize their potential. Mia writes:

I have been working for the same company for the past 13 years. When I first started here it was my intention to be here for five years only and move on to open my own business. Obviously, that time has come and gone. I have always had a desire to own my own business. My latest dream has left me overwhelmed and afraid because I feel like it is bigger than I am. This has kept me confused as to which direction to move in. I am not sure where to begin because the ideas keep coming to enhance my initial dream. So, at this point I have been journaling my ideas until I can get a hold of what I am doing, but I need guidance.

I understand how you feel. Many before you have also been intimidated by the scope and power of their own imagination. Fear not. Your idea came to you; that means that you have the strength and capability to see it through to reality.

But you must decide on a direction and act. You can’t remain in your head because all your doubts and fears are there, eroding your dreams. To act you need confidence. You need to feel as though the odds are in your favor. A good coach can help you to validate your authentic desires and match them to a market need. A coach can help you sort things out so you can see and choose your next optimum step.

Once you get into action only good things can happen.

1). You’ll be able to see what you could not before. Opportunities and connections will appear as you act.
2). You’ll make mistakes and they will help you to arrive at fresh realizations from which you can make adjustments and move forward.
3). You’ll be in the midst of making your dream come true and you’ll feel much more vibrant and alive than you did while just in your head. Every part of your being will vibrate with joy and fulfillment.

I’ll make you an offer that I hope you have the courage to accept. I’ll give you a no-obligation coaching session so that you can receive the guidance you seek. Your only payment will be to write about your experience of being coached and share it on this blog. That way we both can help inspire many others to get out of their heads and into action.

Tom Volkar ~ CoreU & DelightfulWork.com