This seemingly nonsensical statement is good news! It has helped me countless times, so I wanted to share it with you as you move forward with new opportunities and possibilities.

Let’s imagine you are contemplating something new in 2018. Perhaps it is a pivot to a new career path or maybe stepping into an exciting promotion. It could be the leap to pursue a personal dream. I’d imagine that mixed with the tingle of anticipation, there are likely moments of doubt and uncertainty. Even for those of you who are seriously bold. Yikes! Those fears can block you before you even get out of the gate.

…“when I try something new or different, am I starting from scratch?”

I deeply believe the answer is ‘No’. New isn’t starting over. It’s just new. New doesn’t wipe your slate clean. It’s just new. Period.

You build. You morph. You use what you need, and release what you don’t. You bring your cumulative you: all your experiences, learnings, influences. You are a cake. Already baked. Already delicious. And ready for something new.

To bolster this idea, take some time to really understand your recipe.

What are your essential ingredients that hold your cake together? Your values, your talents, your strengths and your passions: the deep truths of who you are that make you uniquely you?

And what has added flavor and nuance to your batter?  What wisdom, insight, and tools do you have from your many varied life experiences?  And how do they serve you as you try something fresh and new?

There’s power in acknowledging and celebrating all that you already are. From this position of confidence, it’s easier to experiment with a new icing, create new decorations or add a whole new layer.

How can you own the awesomeness of your current cake, allowing you to build and flourish in whatever new venture you pursue?

Remember you are already a cake.

Looking forward to hearing about all you build from your strong base.