At a networking event, a bold Networker spoke about her reluctance to use social media. She was hesitant about using it. She asked herself “why not enroll into a social media class?
How can a business owner overcome this fear? This is a powerful and timely question especially as we get close to the peak of the biggest holiday season. Most business owners are confident in their work but hesitant about visibility.
4 Ways to Overcome the Fear of Marketing as a Business Owner
Many business owners love what they do but freeze when it’s time to promote their work. They fear sounding “salesy,” being judged, or stepping into the spotlight. Yet, marketing isn’t about ego, it’s about service and connection. Here are some tips to negate that fear.
Reframe “marketing” as “helping.”
Marketing is simply communicating the value of what you offer to people who need it. When you shift from “selling” to “serving,” fear loses its grip. Ask yourself: Who needs this solution? How can I make it easier for them to find me?
Start with authenticity, not perfection.
You don’t need perfect videos, fancy funnels, or flawless captions. You just need a clear message and consistency. Share your why, your story, and the transformation you help others achieve. Authenticity builds trust faster than polished perfection.
Use your strengths.
If writing comes naturally, blog or post. If you’re a people person, go live or network. If you’re visual, create short reels or carousel posts. Play to your natural communication style instead of forcing what feels unnatural.
Build confidence through small wins.
Set simple, repeatable goals, one post a week, one short video, one client testimonial shared. Every time you take action, your comfort zone expands.
A leadership or business coach can help you uncover the root cause of your fear. Whether it’s fear of rejection, comparison, or visibility and replace it with confidence and clarity.
Coaching helps you align your mindset, message, and methods so you can show up as a confident leader of your brand.
Coaching helps you align your mindset, message, and methods so you can show up as a confident leader of your brand.
Remember: As with the business owner we spoke about, she learnedd that she did not have to love marketing, she just needed to see it as part of her leadership. She did and was happy to shout the benefits.
Remember, your voice, your story, and your offer could be the answer someone is praying for. Don’t let fear keep you silent.
Have you been hesitant to step out and share your work? Do share. We would love to hear.
If you can’t pay it back, pay it forward. ~Catherine Ryan Hyde
Standing in line at the cashier, I decided to pay with the cash I had on hand. The amount came to the exact dollar amount in my wallet, except it needed thirteen cents more. I rummaged through my handbag to cover the difference. The woman behind me said, “Hey, I’ll get it for you.”
Instead of accepting her offer, I searched frantically for the coins, only to remember that I keep my change in the car. She repeated gently, “I’ll get it.” I insisted that I would pay her back when we got outside. She simply replied, “Pay it forward.” Immediately, I understood and promised I would.
I left the store, found the coins in my car, and was about to give her a quarter as she exited. Then I was reminded of her words about paying it forward. I took a deep breath, sighed, and drove away.
How many times has this happened to me? I genuinely like to give but am always hesitant to receive. As I coach my clients, I recognize it’s important to do both—give generously and also be willing to accept graciously in return. One friend once countered my reluctance by saying, “Don’t stop my blessings.”
Leaders Struggle
This simple exchange reveals a profound leadership lesson about the grace of receiving. Many leaders struggle with accepting help, viewing it as weakness or loss of control. However, graceful receiving is actually a powerful leadership skill that creates deeper connections and empowers others.
When we refuse help, we inadvertently rob others of the joy of giving and contributing. We also model unhealthy self-reliance that can isolate us from our teams and communities. The most effective leaders understand that accepting assistance with gratitude creates a culture of mutual support and reciprocity.
Consider this: Every time someone offers to help you—whether it’s covering thirteen cents, sharing an idea, or taking on a task—they’re extending trust and care. Your gracious acceptance validates their value and strengthens the relationship.
Challenge yourself this week to practice receiving with the same intentionality you bring to giving. Say “thank you” instead of “you didn’t have to.” Accept compliments without deflecting. Allow others to contribute to your success. Remember, true leadership isn’t about having all the answers or resources—it’s about creating an environment where everyone can contribute their gifts, including to you.
Pay it forward, yes. But first, allow yourself to receive what’s being offered.
Start by doing what’s necessary l; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you’re doing the impossible. ~St. Francis of Assisi
Starting something new takes courage. Whether it’s launching a business, chasing a career dream, or stepping into the unknown, the journey can feel exciting—but also overwhelming. Fear, doubt, and challenges often show up uninvited, tempting us to give up before we’ve even begun.
This isn’t just another quote collection. It’s a daily dose of encouragement designed to remind you that setbacks are temporary, obstacles are stepping stones, and success is possible when you keep moving forward.
Why This Book Matters
Every entrepreneur and dreamer knows the reality: there will be days when you question yourself. This book is here for those exact moments—when you need that spark to reignite your drive.
Inside, you’ll discover: ✨ Quotes that challenge fear and fuel confidence ✨ Encouragement to push through hard days and keep showing up ✨ Wisdom from timeless voices that inspire resilience and growth
Whether you’re building a business, pursuing a new career path, or simply in need of a reminder to keep going, these words of encouragement will meet you where you are.
Here’s how you can support and spread empowerment:
Order your copy today and be among the first to receive it.
Leave a review once you’ve read it—your feedback encourages others to join the journey.
Gift a copy (or two!) to the entrepreneurs, creators, and go-getters in your life who could use a reminder that giving up is never an option.
Final Thoughts
Dreams are built one step at a time. Challenges are part of the process. And sometimes, all you need is the right word at the right time to keep moving forward.
This book is that reminder.
Don’t wait—101+ Empowering Quotes for New Entrepreneurs now. Join me in fueling a movement of empowered entrepreneurs who choose courage over fear and persistence over giving up.
Effective preparation sets the stage for success and sparks creativity
Authors write, publish and leave expecting miracles. It doesn’t happen. Authorship happens mostly by accident as writers choose to share what’s on their hearts. It might be a memoir, poetry, fiction or non-fiction. As their passion unfold, they write then later realize that they have suddenly been thrust into entrepreneurship! How do they get those books off bookstore shelves? Selected on amazon? Shared among family and friends? It behooves them to sit, pray, and wonder why their books just remains stagnant. Most often these are excellent stories that remains dormant for years, not gleaned by readers.
Realizing this pattern, the Writers Group of South Florida held a workshop. Hosted by the West Regional Library in Plantation. This initiative was facilitated by Dr. Shelly Cameron. Here’s a summary of the takeaway points that attendees authors gleaned.
AUGUST – SEPTEMBER: Build the Foundation & Warm Up Your Audience
Update book cover, blurb, and Amazon listing with holiday-friendly touches.
Secure podcast, blog, and media features for October–December.
Plan holiday content calendar (mix of promos, tips, behind-the-scenes, giveaways).
Launch pre-order bonuses or limited-time bundles.
October: Visible Campaign & Early Gift Push
Submit to gift guides, bloggers, and niche media lists.
Collaborate with other authors for holiday bundles or giveaways.
Feature reader testimonials and reviews on social media.
Run Early Bird discounts to attract early shoppers.
November: Holiday Sales Mode
Run a gratitude-themed campaign for Thanksgiving.
Offer Black Friday/Cyber Monday E-Book discounts or signed copy specials.
Partner with local stores for Small Business Saturday promotions.
Send an email countdown series leading up to Thanksgiving.
December: Final Holiday Push
Promote e-Books and gift certificates for last-minute shoppers.
Run a “12-Days-of-Christmas” themed social media series.
Position your book for New Year’s resolutions or inspiration.
Post thank-you messages and celebrate your readers
PRO TIPS for Conversions
Author Branding Matters: Use consistent holiday visuals across all platforms.
Offer Multiple Formats: Paperback, e-Book, Audio-book—make it easy to gift.
Make It Shareable: Create “I’m gifting this book!” social media graphics for readers to post.
Always Include a Call-to-Action: Don’t just post pretty images—always link to buy.
Track & Adjust: Watch which promos get clicks and double down on what works.
There you have it. Did one, two or a few of the above stand out for you? As a published author, which will you adopt? Do share, we would love to hear.
Summer is almost over and it’s time to make all those back-to-school plans. As we make those plans, lets pause for a minute. Think of a teacher or two who made a difference in your life. Personally, as I age, I think about those teaching experiences and the effect they had on my leadership journey. As I look back, I think of society’s great teachers like Erin Gruwell, Maria Montessori, and the fictional Mr. Keating (Dead Poets Society).
Here are 5 lessons leaders can learn from great teachers.
1.Clarity is Powerful
Teachers break down complex topics into simple, digestible pieces. Leaders must do the same—clearly communicate vision, expectations, and feedback so everyone understands what success looks like.
Lesson: Say less, mean more. Clarity builds trust and momentum.
2. Patience Enables Progress
Teachers know learning takes time and that growth isn’t always linear. Leaders should extend grace and patience during times of transition, failure, or new learning curves—whether with teams or themselves.
Lesson: Progress often looks like repetition before results.
3. Individual Strengths Matter
Great teachers recognize that not every student learns the same way. Great leaders acknowledge that not every employee works, leads, or grows the same. They tailor support, roles, and recognition accordingly.
Lesson: Personalize your leadership to bring out the best in each person.
4. Structure Creates Freedom
Teachers use routines and structure to create a safe space for creativity and exploration. Leaders who implement clear systems give their teams the confidence and autonomy to take initiative.
Teachers who genuinely care spark curiosity and motivation. Leaders who lead with purpose, authenticity, and heart cultivate higher engagement and loyalty.
Lesson: When you model passion, people give their best
As school begins its opening session, the road becomes a task / lesson plan in and of itself. What are your thoughts on the top five lessons? Anything missing that you would like to add? Do share, we would love to hear.
Don’t forget to connect if you would like to discuss your own leadership growth journey.
What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments but what is engraved in the lives of others
Pericles
Behind every great leader is a story of someone who taught them how to think, not what to think. Whether in classrooms, communities, or through powerful stories, teachers like Anne Sullivan, Jaime Escalante, Erin Gruwell, Maria Montessori, and even the fictional Mr. Keating from Dead Poets Society have left lasting legacies. They did not just impart knowledge, but they also unlocked human potential. Their bold approaches, deep empathy, and unwavering belief in those they taught offer rich leadership lessons for anyone seeking to inspire, elevate, and transform others.
1. Anne Sullivan – Teacher of Helen Keller
Why she matters: Sullivan’s unshakable belief in Helen’s potential shows the power of persistence, adaptive teaching, and emotional intelligence.
Leadership lesson:Believe in others, even when they can’t yet believe in themselves.
2. Jaime Escalante – Math Teacher, ‘Stand and Deliver‘
Why he matters: Taught AP Calculus in a struggling inner-city school, proving that high expectations and dedication can change lives.
Leadership lesson:Set the bar high and show people they can reach it.
3. Erin Gruwell – English Teacher, “Freedom Writers”
Why she matters: Helped under-served students find their voices through journaling and literature.
Leadership lesson:Create a safe culture for expression and transformation.
4. Maria Montessori – Founder of the Montessori Method
Why she matters: Revolutionized education by emphasizing self-directed learning, observation, and individual strengths.
Leadership lesson:Foster autonomy and trust people to grow when given the right environment.
5. Mr. Keating – Fictional Teacher, “Dead Poets Society”
Why he matters: Though fictional, Mr. Keating represents the kind of leader who challenges others to think differently, embrace risk, and “seize the day.”
Leadership lesson:Inspire people to think for themselves and lead with courage.
Which iconic teacher has made a lasting impression on you as a leader? Do share. We would love to hear.
Innovation Distinguishes. A group of cross-cultural leaders gathered together to discuss the Cultural Undervaluing of Professional Coaching. Education is a crucial pillar of development, but it is not the full structure. Professional coaching, especially in career planning, mindset growth, and personal branding, is often seen as optional, extravagant, or even unnecessary.
Chris, Maxine, and I, focused on The Pain of Not Embracing Coaching. It has many effects. Here are a few:
Underdeveloped Potential
Talented individuals stay stuck in survival mode. They fail to unlock their genius because no one helps them think strategically about their growth.
Career Plateau
Professionals with great resumes stall out due to poor networking, weak positioning, or self-limiting beliefs.
Global Irrelevance
In our rapidly changing world where soft skills, emotional intelligence, and AI adaptability are premium assets, people fall behind.
Silent Suffering
Many carry silent frustrations; “I’m better than this, but I don’t know how to rise.” Coaching could be the very bridge out of that quiet despair.
Join the conversation. Let’s hear your thoughts. Rather a private chat? Chat me now.
I love to write! It’s a passion that began during my primary education years. I reflect on those early years. Back then, my uncle (an educator and school principal), would gift me with a book on birthdays and Christmas holidays. This was his custom instead of the usual and more preferential ‘toys’. Though disappointed then, I would dive into the books reading for hours.
As life progressed and blogging became a thing, I created my first blog A Moment With Shells in 2010. Later, on completion on my postgraduate education, I formalized this blog titled Successful Leaders to share my passion. It focused on empowering developing leaders through personal growth, leadership development, and success strategies.
That was a over a decade ago. Funny how time flies when you’re having fun!
Here’s an overview of my efforts to create articles, writings, or gleanings. The idea was to uplift, encourage subscribers and visitors under the headings listed.
Goal Setting & Achievement
The blog emphasizes the importance of setting clear, actionable goals. It encourages readers to commit to their objectives, keep them visible, and seek accountability to stay on track. Inspirational quotes from figures like Jim Rohn and Tony Robbins are used to motivate readers to design their own life plans and persist in their pursuits.
Discovering Purpose & Passion
Articles guide readers in uncovering their life purpose by reflecting on personal experiences, childhood interests, and unique talents. Techniques such as visualization, journaling, and seeking feedback from friends are recommended to help individuals find fulfillment and direction.
Stress Management & Work Life Balance
The website offers strategies for managing stress and achieving a healthy work-life balance. It highlights the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, seeking professional support, and engaging in activities that promote mental well-being.
Embracing Change & Personal Growth
Recognizing when it’s time for change is a recurring theme. Writings discuss signs that indicate the need for a new direction and encourages readers to take proactive steps toward personal development. It also emphasizes the courage required to make significant life changes.
Writing, Publishing & Legacy Building
For aspiring authors, the site provides insights into the publishing process, including self-publishing and audiobook production. It also encourages writers to reflect on their life experiences and consider the legacy they wish to leave through their work.
Overall, Successful Leaders serves as a resource for individuals seeking inspiration and practical advice on personal development, leadership, career change and achieving success in various aspects of life.
Subscribe Now! Get on Board
Subscribe to keep updated on upcoming new and exciting developments. Have you been a follower? If so, how long and how have you benefited? Do share, we would love to hear!
With so many books to choose from, you’ll have the hard part of deciding which one to donate.
On Instagram I shared the hard task of purging my books. I have a million with little or no storage space. But what happened was…. During my purge, I ended up reading and re-claiming books.
I decided to share my work (purge in process), and an interested person asked, “where can you donate books?” I responded briefly but decided to post more here on the blog.
Popular and Unique Places to Donate Books
Local Donation Options
Public Libraries
Many libraries accept gently used books for their collections or book sales.
Call ahead—they often have specific donation days or guidelines.
Schools & Colleges
Especially helpful for children’s books, young adult novels, and textbooks.
Contact local principals, librarians, or teachers to ask if they need donations.
Community Centers / YMCA / Local Clubs
Often accept books for literacy programs, tutoring, or community libraries.
Hospitals & Nursing Homes
They may accept clean, gently used books for waiting rooms or patient use.
Churches / Faith-Based Organizations
Great place to donate devotionals, spiritual books, or children’s materials.
Charitable Organizations
Goodwill or Salvation Army
Accepts a wide range of books. Proceeds support their employment programs.
Habitat for Humanity ReStores
Some locations take books to sell in support of housing projects.
Books for Africa / Books Through Bars / Better World Books
Organizations that distribute books to under-served communities locally or globally.
Little Free Library
Find a nearby box via littlefreelibrary.org and drop books off for community sharing.
Online / Specialized Options
Freecycle.org / Buy Nothing Groups (Facebook)
Offer books locally for free and connect with those who want them.
Local Prison Programs
Many prisons accept paperback books only. Check with local chaplains or nonprofits.
Book Drives / Literacy Nonprofits
Check with local literacy organizations or Rotary Clubs—they may be running book drives.
Sometimes God brings times of transition to create transformation. ~Lynn Cowell
Transition is not a sign that something’s gone wrong. It’s often a sign that something deeply right is trying to emerge.
Whether you’re navigating a career pivot, stepping into leadership, returning to yourself after raising children, grieving a loss, starting over, or simply outgrowing who you used to be — you are not lost.
You are in motion. And motion is sacred.
Transitions Aren’t Detours
So many of us have been taught to treat transitions like detours. Inconveniences. Delays. But in my experience — and maybe in yours too — transitions are not detours. They are invitations. Invitations to pause. To listen. To lead our lives more deliberately.
There’s a quote I love:
Sometimes when you’re in a dark place, you think you’ve been buried but actually you’ve been planted
So if you’re feeling buried right now — by uncertainty, or fear, or change — know this: You’re not stuck. You’re becoming.
Whether it’s career change, motherhood, empty nesting, loss, or reinvention — transitions are not delays. They’re sacred invitations to pause, realign, and step into something deeper.
Who You Are Becoming is Just as Important as What You’re Doing
Our default in transition is to rush into action. Update the resume. Apply for roles. Rebrand the business. Hustle harder. But what if the first step wasn’t “What should I do?” What if it was: “Who am I becoming?”
Because clarity doesn’t come from more motion. It comes from alignment. From asking:
What do I no longer want to carry?
What am I being called to step into?
What version of me is ready to emerge?
This is your opportunity to shape your next self, not just your next job title, or business pivot, or life chapter.
You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
One of the hardest things about transitions? They can feel so lonely. Especially for women who are used to being the strong ones, the fixers, the go-to for everyone else.
But here’s what I want to say to you today: You are not alone. And you’re not the only one feeling “in between.”
Let this season be one where you ask for help. Where you find community. Where you give yourself permission to rebuild — slowly, honestly, bravely.
Because you don’t have to have it all figured out to move forward. You just have to decide you’re worth the becoming.
Wrapping it Up
So if you’re in transition today — good. It means you’re alive. It means something inside you is shifting. Growing. Healing. Honor that.
You don’t need to go back to who you were. You are being invited to rise into who you’re becoming.
And I promise — she is worth the wait.
Going through a transition and feeling confused? Let’s connect
