A few years ago, I met someone who told me she loves challenges. She thrives in challenge. She welcomes challenges.

I didn’t get it. 

At this point in my business — seven years in — I can’t say I love challenges, but I’m no longer resistant to it. 

Regardless of how you feel, let’s face it, challenges are an inevitable part of life, coming in many shapes and sizes. 

But here’s the thing…

Whether it’s changing careers, starting a business, taking your business to a new level or in a new direction, leaving a relationship— literally any of life’s big (or small) decisions— the answer lies in your heart.

Take my dear friend Neeta Bhushan, for example. Neeta is a true champion of emotional and mental health. Despite living what her parents would consider the American Dream, Neeta ultimately left her successful cosmetic dentistry practice (and an abusive husband) to follow her instincts and ultimately find (and live) her purpose. 

Her story reminds us of the clarity and beauty that comes when we trust ourselves and follow our instincts. It exemplifies the power of letting go of the pressures and expectations (from ourselves and others), highlighting the life-changing breakthroughs that can arise when you follow your heart. 

There are so many incredible takeaways from Neeta’s story which you can hear here, but one of the most powerful is her framework for rising above life’s obstacles with resilience. 

As you read through, consider how you can apply this framework to your life or business and career. 

(Remember, without action, they’re merely thoughts that could have, should have, would have).

Give yourself permission. 

Far too often, we wait for somebody else to validate our desires and decisions. Give yourself permission to lean into your heart. Give yourself the time and space to listen to what your instincts are telling you. 

Maybe it involves a process of self-care or self-reflection. Whatever it is, do it. Taking this time to listen to your heart is one of the most valuable things you can do to help in the process of reflecting, rethinking, resetting, and ultimately reclaiming the life you want to live. 

Satisfy your curiosity. 

It’s amazing how many doors open once you start saying yes and exploring what is possible. Consider the curiosities you have right now. What’s holding you back? Is it fear of failure or judgment from yourself or others? How would it feel to say yes? To let the judgments go and, instead, embrace the opportunity? 

A lot of times, we get stuck in our own patterns of thinking and doing. Step outside that box. Explore new ways of thinking. Don’t be afraid of doing something different. Lean into your curiosity and see where it takes you. (You’d be surprised). 

Ignite the possibilities.

Whether it’s considering a different perspective, way of thinking, or way of doing things, ignite the possibilities. It’s not enough just to think about doing the thing. You have to create the plan and take action. 

You might not have all the answers, and that’s okay. Chances are, you know more than you give yourself credit for. You might just have to reframe your approach. Ask a different question. Let go of whatever is holding you back so you can fully step in the direction you want to go with full force. 

Magnify your gifts. 

If you feel like you were put on this earth to do something big, it’s because you were. It’s time to rise up and magnify your purpose. That will only happen when you start stepping into your gifts. For Neeta, that was connecting with others. What is it for you? Maybe you’re still trying to figure out what that is (and that’s okay). Start by identifying what brings you joy. What is it that you feel called to do? 

Once you identify those gifts, choose the ones to magnify and share with the world. Ask yourself how you can utilize those gifts in a way that will enable you to thrive, living a life better than your wildest dreams. 

Move forward and thrive. 

Inaction breeds inaction. Action, on the other hand, inspires results. How are you going to move through this challenging time? What steps can you take to move forward? Maybe you’re finding yourself in an unhealthy relationship or a career that no longer feels in alignment. Maybe you have a new direction you want to take your business in. Perhaps you’re recovering from a poor investment. Whatever it is, it’s time to move forward. 

It’s all about taking action so you can not only rise above the obstacle but fly. If you dream it, you can do it. It starts with believing it is possible and then taking steps toward the results you want.  

I’m telling you, that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to all that Neeta has to offer. Her story is truly admirable, and the insights she has to offer are rich with actionable advice. 

With that said, be sure to listen to the IHML Show episode and all of its glory here. 

Here’s to getting inspired and taking action.