It Takes Courage to Be an Entrepreneur
April 22, 2007
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Fairy Godmother Carol Rice , Founder/CEO of CherishBound shares the following inspiration:
“Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage.” ~ Anais Nin
Are there things you want to try, experiences you long to have but for whatever reason, you’re
afraid? Our fear can become a prison, and stand between fulfilling our dreams and a life of possibilities. Fear can keep us from becoming the fully formed person we were meant to be.
Courage, as an antidote to Fear means we are willing to step out of that comfort zone, and live life with purpose!
Recently I saw a movie that honored the courage, passion and determination of such a man. In the movie, Amazing Grace, William Wilberforce’s story is told. His story is one of a man, reluctant at first to claim his greatness, but eventually embraces all that he feels compelled to do and the movement for good he becomes is an amazing story of courage (at the end of the post you will find a link and more info).
Closer to home, recently one of our CherishBound Storytellers inspired us with her courage and willingness to step out of her comfort zone. Toni Calhoun, of Texas, recently held a culminating event for a group of children she had helped to publish stories. When an overly-critical person threatened the tone of the event, and challenged Toni’s efforts, our Cherish Bound storyteller remained composed, stood and shared the following with everyone there.
Toni said, “I know that you are all here to hear the children, … so I’ll be brief, but I have a few things I want to tell you. I have met you all, and I won’t take time to talk about myself, other than to tell you that I am a certified teacher. The reason that I want you to know that is because I hope that it lends credibility to the words of praise that I bestow upon your children.â€
I told them a little more than they already knew about Cherish Bound. I impressed upon them that it is not about the books, but about the stories they contained, and briefly talked about the importance of stories.
Then, I said, “Maybe you think that I’m a little over the top or going overboard, but this IS important, and it IS special. It is important because as your child grows up and even when they become adults, when they hold their books in their hands they will remember that you took the time to come here and to be with them and celebrate with them and honor their stories. They will remember because they have something to attach that memory to. YOU are making a positive impact on your child’s self-esteem, their self-confidence, and their identity simply by being here tonight. It IS important. I AM over the top. I am proud of them. They have done an amazing job, and they deserve our time and our attention.â€
As I looked over the room when I was saying that, the children were beaming, the parents were smiling and nodding their heads. Couples were looking at each other and smiling proudly. It was probably the best moment of the evening.”
There are occasions, like this one for Toni, where it takes courage to share a message, a concept, a new strategy, a business plan - but once done, it has the power to impact lives.
Today’s Magic Wand: Do something courageous today - right now, pick up the phone and call a few customers, a new lead, that community education director, a potential press opportunity. Be sincere and specific in your reason for the call and you will hang up feeling accomplished - feeling courageous!
“Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage.”
Live Big!
Until Next Time…
Carol, Fairy Godmother for Start Up Princess
Here is a link to the website where you can learn more about the story behind the ever-popular song, Amazing Grace, the story of William Wilberforce and more. If you haven’t seen the movie, you will likely find it worth the effort. (Be sure to watch the video trailer and the clip about the Amazing Grace story) But don’t go there until you’ve taken your own courageous step today… use the visit to this website as your own little “reward.” Make A Great Day! http://www.amazinggracemovie.com
***Tell us what you did that was courageous today ***







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