7 Dream Killers Preventing Your Success – #2: Low Self-Esteem

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7 Dream Killers Preventing Your Success – Dream Killer #2: Low Self-Esteem

In my experience, one of the most challenging aspects of dreaming is finding the courage to dream again after your heart has been crushed. Life doesn’t always go the way we hope, and the reality is that some dreams may never come true. We live in an imperfect world where sometimes we don’t get what we want. But even when life feels unfair, we must never stop dreaming.

While you can’t always guarantee that your dreams will come true, you can significantly increase the likelihood by protecting them from the Seven Dream Killers. In my eBook titled YES YOU CAN!, I discuss the Seven Dream Killers that can prevent your success, and what you can do to overcome them. This blog series is based on that eBook, and today we’ll be focusing on Dream Killer #2: Low Self-Esteem.

Dream Killer #2: Low Self-Esteem

Low self-esteem is like internal bleeding—it weakens you from within. You may look fine on the outside, but inside, you are slowly deteriorating. This silent killer will make you hide your gifts, your beauty, and your potential from the world. You begin to see yourself as inadequate, unworthy, unlovable, and incompetent, which creates a cycle of negative, self-critical thoughts that further diminish your confidence.

When you believe these lies about yourself, you start making choices that limit your potential and cloud your vision for the future. You begin to play small, hold back, and second-guess your decisions. Eventually, you lose faith in who you truly are, and you miss out on your true purpose.

The Story of Susan’s Journey

Let me tell you about Susan. Susan was an accomplished optometrist, running a successful practice for years. But inside, she struggled with low self-esteem. She constantly compared herself to others, thinking she wasn’t as skilled or intelligent as her peers. Despite her accomplishments, Susan felt like an imposter, always waiting to be exposed as a fraud.

Over time, Susan began to shy away from opportunities. She stopped pursuing new ventures because she didn’t believe she could succeed. Her fear of failure paralyzed her, and her dreams started slipping away.

One day, a mentor challenged Susan to write down her strengths—something she hadn’t done in years. It wasn’t easy for her at first, but with encouragement, Susan listed five things she was good at. Over time, she started to recognize her true value. She began to speak with more confidence and take on new challenges. Susan’s journey wasn’t an overnight success, but each step she took towards affirming her worth brought her closer to realizing her dreams.

How to Overcome Low Self-Esteem

Overcoming low self-esteem doesn’t happen overnight, but with intention and practice, you can silence the negative voices in your head and reclaim your dreams. Here are three steps to help you start:

1. Acknowledge That You Will Never Be Perfect

Perfection is a myth. Nobody is perfect, and chasing perfection will only leave you feeling defeated. Mistakes are part of the human experience, and failure is often a prerequisite for success. Expecting perfection from yourself is not only unrealistic but also an act of arrogance. If you truly believe that everyone is equal, then why wouldn’t you be good enough? Let go of the idea that you need to be flawless in order to be worthy.

As Dr. Brené Brown, a renowned researcher on vulnerability and shame, puts it:
“Imperfections are not inadequacies; they are reminders that we’re all in this together.”

2. Identify Your Strengths and Affirm Them

Make a list of at least five strengths. If you’re struggling to come up with a list on your own, ask friends or colleagues who know you well for input. Once you identify your strengths, commit to doing one thing each day that aligns with those strengths. Whether it’s a small act of kindness, using your creativity, or leading a team—doing what you’re good at will naturally build your confidence and raise your self-esteem.

Consider the words of Maya Angelou:
“You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.”
Focus on your strengths and let them propel you forward.

3. Develop a Sense of Humor

Life is too short to take yourself too seriously. Learning to laugh at yourself and your mistakes will help you see challenges as opportunities for growth, rather than proof of inadequacy. Humor is a powerful tool in combating low self-esteem because it helps you shift your perspective and release the pressure of perfection.

I’ll share a personal story here: as an immigrant, I have an accent. There was a time when mispronouncing words embarrassed me to the point of silence. But as I grew older, I realized it wasn’t a big deal. In fact, it’s rather funny when words like “beach” and “bitch” sound the same! Instead of letting it hold me back, I learned to laugh at myself. Laughter truly is the best medicine—it frees you from the grip of self-doubt.

The Power of Confidence

When you build your self-esteem, you unlock the door to your dreams. You begin to trust yourself, take more risks, and step into your purpose with courage. With increased confidence, you’ll experience:

• Greater happiness: You’ll be more content and at peace with who you are.
• Clarity: You’ll make decisions with conviction and pursue your dreams with focus.
• Fulfillment: You’ll live a more purposeful life, aligned with your true potential.

Are You Struggling with Low Self-Esteem?

You’re not alone. Many people feel stuck in their lives because of low self-esteem, but it doesn’t have to be this way. I’ve helped many individuals in similar situations find joy, clarity, and fulfillment. If you’re ready to reclaim your confidence and start living your dreams, I invite you to join my mastermind group.

In this supportive community, you’ll learn how to overcome low self-esteem, develop a winning mindset, and take action toward your dreams. You don’t have to face this journey alone. Together, we can overcome the dream killers that are holding you back.

Take Action Today

Dreamers are world-changers, and that includes you. It’s time to believe in your dreams, take risks, and become the CEO of YOU®. Don’t just talk about what you can do—show the world! Your dreams are worth fighting for, and with the right mindset, you can overcome any obstacle.

Stay tuned next week for Dream Killer #3: Negativity. Until then, remember to Dream Big, Take Risks, and become the CEO of YOU®!

Get Your Copy Today!

If this blog resonates with you, you’ll love my eBook, 7 Dream Killers Preventing Your Success. It delves deeper into these concepts and provides actionable strategies to protect your dreams and keep moving forward.

Click HERE to get your copy today and start living the life you’ve always imagined!

Let’s Empower, Connect, and Promote Your Success!