Standing at the precipice, heart pumping, adrenaline kicking, the task at hand we have performed hundreds of times, yet the small voice whispering, “Can you do this?”
How often do we doubt our capabilities, despite praise, recognition, or the repetition of that tantalizing task we pursue, one that might even pay the bills?
What comes to mind as a recent example is the year-long portrait project I recently completed, an initiative that actually put me in touch with the coffee mate inspiring this post.
I embarked on taking 25 portraits of different people within the Latinx community. Each portrait posed a challenge. Some were easier than others, but being out there with the camera in hand and the person in front of me, I could hear that voice echoing in the back of my head.
My anxiety/concern revolved around honoring the essence of the person and technically taking a good picture.
Another example is when I have had to write a proposal for work in an unfamiliar area, or for a new project to develop. At that threshold, the voice comes and challenges me.
Imposter syndrome, fear, lack of confidence, or maybe the passion that drives us puts that pressure. I recently listened to a podcast where author Robert Greene (The Art of Seduction, Mastery, The 48 Laws of Power, among other books) described his writing process and how each draft felt like a daunting, anxiety-inducing puzzle. Yet, each draft and iteration, a step closer to refining and polishing his ideas.
The connection here is that instead of interpreting that little voice as doubt look at it as the catalyst for growth and push needed to spread your wings and take the leap from the edge of the precipice.
Coffee With John 