Written by: Neena Perez, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
When we contemplate shame, our minds often fixate on its negative consequences. However, there is a side to shame that we rarely acknowledge—the potential for growth and self-improvement. Embracing feelings of guilt and remorse for our missteps or the letdown of those who matter to us can pave the way for personal development over time. I call this healthy shame.
Yet, shame can also be sneaky, morphing into a toxic force that hinders progress and impedes success, particularly in the realm of business. I know this toxic shame all too well. It manifests as embarrassment and regret, acting as both a motivator for change and a formidable obstacle. Now don’t get me wrong you can be very successful while suppressing these feelings of toxic shame, I don’t recommend it but remember that success is a personal journey, and it's essential to define it in a way that resonates with your values and aspirations. However, I now know that addressing toxic shame and fostering self-compassion and self-acceptance, creates a foundation for personal growth, well-being, and much more success that I had prior to dealing with it.
The impact of shame on your entrepreneurial journey cannot be underestimated. Its presence can trigger a barrage of self-doubt and negative self-talk, effectively derailing our aspirations and goals. Consequently, addressing shame head-on becomes imperative for triumph as an entrepreneur or business owner.
However, we must recognize that shame is not an objective reality; it resides within our thoughts and emotions. It materializes as an intrusive notion during times when circumstances don't align with our expectations. Perhaps it emerges when someone criticizes our work, unjustly labeling it as inadequate. In such moments, we must remind ourselves that shame is but a transient feeling—it holds no dominion over our thoughts and actions. Instead of fixating on the disparaging voices in our minds, such as "I can’t do this " or "They're right," let us redirect our focus toward understanding the situation and its underlying causes.
Consider that the criticism you received, or the notion of inadequacy thrust upon you might be motivated by hidden agendas. Perhaps the critic seeks solace in belittling others or harbors envy toward your achievements. Regardless, it is crucial not to internalize these comments personally. Instead, shift your attention toward analyzing what transpired and why. Remember: you hold the power to resist shame's grip.
To truly flourish, your business must not be held captive by the shackles of shame. Recognize that shame, at its core, is an idea—a mere illusion that lacks the ability to dictate your trajectory. Liberating yourself from shame requires a conscious effort to confront it whenever it arises.
As a woman leader or entrepreneur embrace the transformative potential within your business by shedding the weight of shame. As you navigate the entrepreneurial landscape, remember that the true measure of success lies in your resilience, not in the opinions of those who seek to undermine your progress, including what you say to yourself. So, dare to defy shame, reclaim your narrative, and unleash the full potential of your business.
If you're ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, I invite you to connect with Neena Perez, a transformational life coach. Neena specializes in empowering self-led, heart-centered women to transcend their shame, cultivating confidence and self-actualizing their true potential. With Neena's guidance, you can finally create the life and business you've always yearned for.
To start your transformational journey today, visit Neena Perez's website and take the first step toward unleashing your greatness. Remember, the power to transcend shame and embrace your true potential lies within you.
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Neena Perez, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Neena is a coach, entrepreneur, author, speaker, podcaster, and chef. She uses all she has been through to encourage and impact lives one at a time. Neena has written her autobiography called “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” ‒ How I Overcame A Hard Hitting Life, which is a story of abuse, teen pregnancy, domestic violence, abortion, hard times, divorce, poverty, finding faith, overcoming and hitting life back when life hits us hard. She is currently a Transformational Life Coach and she helps self-led, heart-centered women transcend their shame so they can be confident, self-actualize their true potential and create the life and business they have always wanted.
