When I first decided I wanted to change my life and find a career that worked for me I wanted to do it all and be it all. Seriously.
I wanted to become ::: a yoga teacher, spinning instructor, Reiki practitioner, personal trainer, Certified Holistic Health and Wellness coach, personal food shopper, cooking instructor, retreat leader, and inspirational speaker, design inspirational yoga accessories, while also writing fictional novels, inspirational books and e-books.
I truly believed the best way to be happy and successful was to do everything.
Thankfully, during my first call with the uber-insightful life coach Mara Glatzel, she encouraged me to open my heart and mind to all the different possibilities by writing everything down on a big piece of paper. There was no dream too big or too small. In fact, she pushed me to write down everything. Even the crazy dreams that I had never mentioned to anyone before (like opening a Wellness Center). Simply, she gave me permission to dream and by writing each idea and goal down I could free myself from the burden of carrying them with me.
Her point :: giving all of my dreams space to live cleared space for me to find direction and take action.
That was in May and since then I’ve begun to realize that branching out and trying to do everything wasn’t necessarily the way to go.
I first started thinking that I was branching out too much when I reading Danielle LaPorte’s book, The Fire Starter Sessions. Throughout the book she talks about the importance of being an expert and her words really resonated with me… “Being well-rounded is highly over-rated. When you focus on developing your true strengths you enter your mastery zone.”
Then just recently I read a great article on the Heart of Business about the Tender Art of Niching. In the article Mark sheds light on some of the fears, misconceptions and myths of choosing a niche… “Picking a niche is partly about guidance in your heart and partly about your willingness to choose to plant your flag and stand for something.”
These lessons have really stuck with me and helped me see, that at least this point in my life, it’s better for me to find and thrive within my niche. I truly believe that by focusing my energy, direction and passion I’ll be happier and more successful.
Why?
Because I’ll be able to dive into the areas that most interest and excite me.
I’ll be able to spend time becoming knowledgeable about certain areas.
I’ll be able to connect with gorgeous souls that connect with my mission and services.
I won’t feel as stretched and overwhelmed.
Most of all, I’ll be better aligned with my intentions, life purpose and authentic self.
Embracing a niche isn’t about limiting yourself, it’s about really listening to yourself and figuring out what you really want to dedicate your time and energy to.
Personally, I’ve chosen to focus on Reiki, yoga, writing and life coaching (yup – I’m starting a life coaching biz this winter!). Saying this out-loud is exciting for me. I’ve found my purpose (supporting and inspiring others) and a direction for my passion and energy.
I’ve found my niche, what do you think is yours?
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