Is It Time To Take The Leap? Knowing When the Time is Right to Chase Your Dreams

There comes a moment in everyone’s life when the nagging feeling of "What if?" becomes too loud to ignore. It's that persistent whisper that says, “You’ve got more to offer.” Whether it's leaving the soul-sucking corporate grind, starting your own business, writing that book that's been burning inside you, or any other dream that’s been patiently waiting for your attention, the question remains: Is it time to leap?

The Leap and the Upper Limit Problem

The brilliant Gay Hendricks, in his transformative book The Big Leap, introduces us to the concept of the "Upper Limit Problem." This is the self-imposed glass ceiling we all bump our heads against when we’re about to step into a new level of success and happiness. It’s the internal alarm that goes off when things get too good, pulling us back into our comfort zone. Hendricks argues that breaking through this barrier is essential for living our best lives.

Imagine your comfort zone as a cosy, worn-out sofa. It's familiar and easy, but it’s also holding you back from experiencing the thrilling, the extraordinary, and the truly satisfying. Hendricks challenges us to recognise these limits and push through them to realise our full potential.

Signs That It’s Time to Leap

1. Unshakeable Restlessness: If you’re constantly daydreaming about a different life, that’s a strong sign. Your soul is nudging you to move. Pay attention to those dreams and desires—they are clues to your true calling. Sometimes it may take weeks, days or even months for us to get the clarity on what we are here to do.

2. Growing Discontent: Feeling a constant sense of discontent with your current situation is a red flag. It's your inner self's way of telling you that where you are is no longer where you’re meant to be. The dissonance will begin to play tricks on your mindset, you will start to begrudge the work you are doing and it will become more and more dissatisfying.

3. Synchronicities and Signs: Have you been noticing patterns or “coincidences” nudging you in a particular direction? Maybe you’ve met people who are living your dream or keep stumbling upon resources related to your passion. The universe is conspiring to help you. The universe, god or source will never keep you in a place you aren't meant to be in, it will show you a new path - you just need to be open to seeing it.

4. Excitement Mixed with Fear: That bubbling excitement tinged with fear is a good sign. It means you’re on the edge of your comfort zone, ready to expand into new territories. I remember sleeping on the sofa one night (thank you bad back!) when I literally had a light bulb moment and it kept me awake all night as those feelings of what could be stirred inside me. 4 years on I can still remember the feeling.

The Fear of the Unknown

Ah, the fear of the unknown. It's that pesky little gremlin that whispers doubts into your ear:

“What if I fail?

What if I’m not good enough?

What if I make a fool of myself?”

These thoughts are like anchors, keeping you tethered to the safe and familiar, to your comfort zone, even when your heart yearns for more.

And here’s the thing—living in the "what ifs" is a guaranteed way to keep yourself small.

Acknowledge the Fear, but Don’t Let It Rule

Acknowledging your fear is the first step. It’s completely normal to feel scared when contemplating a big change. Fear can serve a purpose—it can protect us from danger and push us to prepare thoroughly. But when it stops us from pursuing our dreams, it’s no longer serving us. Instead of letting fear paralyse you, use it as a guide. If something scares you, it’s often a sign that it’s meaningful and worth pursuing.

The Limiting Thoughts

Those limiting thoughts are like the chorus of a bad song stuck on repeat: “You can’t do this. You’ll never make it. Who do you think you are?” They stem from past experiences, societal expectations, and our own insecurities. And remember, thoughts are not facts. They’re just mental chatter that you can choose to ignore or challenge.

When a limiting thought pops up, counter it with a positive affirmation or a reminder of your past successes. For instance, if you think, “I can’t start a business; I don’t know how,” remind yourself, “I am capable of learning and growing. I’ve tackled challenges before and succeeded.”

Taking the Leap

Once you recognise it’s time to leap, the next step is action. Start with small steps:

1. Get Clear on Your Vision: What does your dream look like? Be as detailed as possible. Write it down, create a vision board, journal about it or talk it out with a mentor.

2. Plan but Don’t Overplan: While it’s good to have a plan, don’t get stuck in the planning phase. The perfect moment to start will never arrive, so take imperfect action now.

3. Build a Support System: Surround yourself with people who believe in you. Join communities of like-minded individuals, hire a coach, or find a mentor. When those doubts creep in, this is when you'll need the support

4. Commit and Go All In: Half-hearted attempts yield half-hearted results. Make a full commitment to your dream. Trust in your ability to navigate challenges and adjust as necessary.

Embrace the Journey

Taking the leap is about embracing the journey and all its ups and downs. You’ll learn, grow, and evolve in ways you never imagined. The leap might be scary, but staying stuck in your comfort zone is scarier.

Remember, every successful person you admire took their own leap of faith. They faced their fears, pushed through their limits, and transformed their lives. As Gay Hendricks wisely puts it, “Each of us has an inner thermostat setting that determines how much love, success, and creativity we allow ourselves to enjoy.” It’s time to reset that thermostat and leap into the life you’ve always dreamed of.

So, are you ready to leap? The universe is waiting to catch you. Your dreams are ready when you are.

And I'm ready to support you in making your dreams a reality.