We've all been there—that unsettling feeling of standing at a crossroads, unsure which path to take. You know you want to move forward, to build something meaningful, to leave your mark, but the destination remains shrouded in mist. For women in the She Builds Legacy community, this uncertainty can feel especially daunting. We're often juggling multiple roles, navigating societal expectations, and striving for personal and professional growth. But here's the truth: uncertainty doesn't have to paralyze us. In fact, it can be the fertile ground where our most authentic goals take root.

The Power of Exploration

When you're unsure of your ultimate goal, the first step is to embrace exploration. Think of it as a journey of discovery. Instead of focusing on a fixed destination, focus on the process of uncovering your passions and values.

You want to start a business, but you don’t want to do the same old buy-and-sell or provide the common, popular services that everyone offers.

Perhaps you're drawn to creative expression but aren't sure how to monetize it. Start by exploring different mediums—writing, painting, digital art. Attend workshops, join online communities, and experiment without the pressure of immediate results. This exploration will provide clarity about what truly resonates with you.

Setting Process-Oriented Goals:

Instead of focusing on outcome-based goals (e.g., "earn $100,000 this year"), shift your focus to process-oriented goals. These goals are about the actions you take, not just the end result.

Instead of "launch a successful business," set goals like "dedicate one hour daily to market research" or "connect with three potential mentors each week." These smaller, actionable steps create momentum and provide valuable insights.

Cultivating Self-Awareness:

Uncertainty often stems from a lack of self-awareness. Take time for introspection. Journaling and self-reflection can help you identify your core values, strengths, and areas for growth.

I remember when I first started Quilt Africa Fabrics, I had a general passion for African textiles, but I didn't truly understand my unique value proposition. Through journaling and conversations with quilting friends, I discovered my passion for encouraging quilters use African fabrics in their projects and for sharing stories of African culture and tradition as they relate to textiles while preserving cultural heritage. This clarity became the foundation of my business goals.

Embracing Flexibility and Iteration:

Your goals are not set in stone. Be prepared to adjust and adapt as you learn and grow. Embrace the concept of iteration—small, incremental changes that lead to significant progress over time.

I knew I wanted to share my love for African fabrics with other quilters, but I wasn’t quite sure how to do that. Embracing feedback helped me realize that I needed to show how African fabrics could be used in both traditional and modern quilts, and that insight helped me define what Quilt Africa Fabrics was all about.

Leveraging Your Community:

You are not alone on this journey. Connect with other women in the She Builds Legacy community. Share your challenges, seek advice, and celebrate your successes.

I've found immense support and inspiration within the Quilt Africa and She Builds Legacy networks. Connecting with like-minded women has helped me overcome obstacles, gain new perspectives, and stay motivated.

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome:

As you navigate uncertainty and set goals, imposter syndrome may creep in. Remember that you are capable and worthy of achieving your dreams. Download my free lead magnet, "6 Steps to Breaking Imposter Syndrome," to learn practical strategies for overcoming self-doubt and building confidence. Get it here: https://impostersyndromeguide.shebuildslegacy.co/download-guide593203.

Conclusion:

Uncertainty is a natural part of the journey. By embracing exploration, setting process-oriented goals, cultivating self-awareness, embracing flexibility, leveraging your community, and overcoming imposter syndrome, you can navigate the unknown with confidence and clarity.