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There’s no shortage of advice out there telling you what you should be doing.
In your job.
In your career.
In your life.
And many times, that advice can be conflicting pointing in opposite directions.
“Say yes to every opportunity” vs. “Protect your time and say no”
“Fake it till you make it” vs. “Be authentic and vulnerable”
“Specialize early” vs. “Stay broad and explore”
“Follow your passion” vs. “Be practical”
I remember the feeling of going back and forth, arguing in my head for both sides. I’d go around in circles, until I wasn’t sure which direction was up.
If you feel this too… You’re not lost. You’re just listening to too many voices.
Maybe you’ve started thinking about a career change (That what if…?)
You’re asking for input. You’re weighing your options. You’re being thoughtful and open-minded.
But a mentor you respect doesn’t think it’s a good idea. A friend questions your choice. A colleague implies you’re making a mistake.
“Don’t let the noise of other’s opinions drown out your own inner voice.”
So, you start second-guessing.
Maybe you’re being unrealistic. Maybe they see something you don’t. Maybe you’re not ready after all.
But what’s actually happening?
Most people don’t stall because: Their decision is wrong.
They stall because: They give too much weight to what everyone else thinks.
Because doubt gets mistaken for danger.
And discomfort is seen as a sign to stop.
Real clarity gets buried under the noise.
Your career isn’t broken. You just haven’t fully owned it yet.
Confidence is rarely about certainty.
Confidence is choosing, despite uncertainty.
Confidence is holding your ground when others would waver.
To move forward with courage: You don’t need another opinion. You need to back your own. And give your decision the respect of commitment.
So, ask yourself — Are you actually unclear?
Or are you outsourcing your permission?
You don’t need approval.
All those voices you’re tapping into?
It’s time to make one louder: yours.
“Don’t let the noise of other’s opinions drown out your own inner voice.”
Steve Jobs
Founder of Apple Inc.
