It Takes Courage to Start a Dream: Finding Your Persistence

It takes courage to start a dream. But it also takes a certain kind of gumption to stand still—rooted in fear. Jim Rohn once reminded us that, like in nature, life moves in seasons. Aren’t we all a bit more joyful when we see the first blooms of spring? They remind us that the wintery days and blistering cold are finally behind us, even if just for a while. We find gratitude in that shift.

That is what I want to remind you of today.

Embracing Setbacks and Choosing to Persist

If you are experiencing a temporary setback—be it financial, emotional, physical, or professional—hold on to hope. Choose to persist. Life will bring obstacles, yes. But obstacles are not the end. I remember relocating to Boston after a nine-month stint abroad as an expat. That’s when I decided to start my business: Turning ON the Lights Global Institute.

Facing Reality with Courage

I had immediate concerns. Economic stability was on my mind. I worried about how to find clients and how to build engaging programming. I had no email list, no mentor, and no seed capital. But I did have work ethic, creativity, and the one thing that carried me further than anything else: persistence.

Every win, no matter how small, counted. I remember my first contract. My first coaching session. My first event. Some were intimate, while others were packed. But I told myself, I won’t focus on who didn’t come—I’ll focus on who did.

The Power of Small Wins

Little by little, Turning ON the Lights began to make ripples. From Massachusetts to North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, and as far as Africa and France. I remember the selfies, the grapevine tribe dances, the photos, and the livestreams. And I am deeply grateful.

Building Practices as a Solopreneur

None of it would have happened without building the practices that every solopreneur must develop. So wherever you are in your journey, keep pressing through. The challenges you face now are stepping stones to your future success.

Reflections on the Journey of Entrepreneurship

Each step you take, whether forward or backward, brings you closer to your goals. Remember, the journey of entrepreneurship is not a sprint; it is a marathon. Embrace the learning experiences that come with each setback.

And tune in to today’s episode of the podcast: The Power of Entrepreneurship.".