12 Comments
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Cayli Cavaco Reck's avatar

Really thoughtful question. Lately I’ve been saying, “I’m working on things that don’t really post well.” It gets a smile and usually a bit of relief. The truth is I’m in a season of doing the kind of steady work that sets things up for what’s next.

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Candace Nelson's avatar

Ooooh this is perfect!!!

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Cindy Smith's avatar

I love this post, thank you Candace. I recently went to a gathering of former coworkers and bosses and this question came up a lot in different forms. I just owned my work and said " Building a running gear business" and sparked conversations on what it was etc. I was internally judging myself and putting pressure that it was not "enough" but honestly its all self inflicted.

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Mary Lemmer's avatar

THIS! Someone recently asked me “so what are you doing?” 🤣

These types of questions used to activate me but now I choose to have fun with them. I like to respond with something along the lines of, “well, though I’ve been known and can be known for several different things I’ve done / do, these days my primary focus is xyz”

And for me, these days I’m particularly excited about the book deal I just signed!

Thanks for sharing! So much resonance with your stories!

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Candace Nelson's avatar

Congrats on the book deal! Good for you!!

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Rachel Upshaw's avatar

I just launched my debut novel GREEK LOVERS and started a publishing/production company to do so!

I have the biggest dreams that I’ve workshopped with entrepreneur friends! I have bold, unique vision! People are loving the book! It’s designed to be the most beautiful beach read travel accessory!

And then I get 150 views on a TikTok video I worked on for hours 😅 it feels impossible to catch that little bit of wind it takes to soar into the air, but just in the mean time I’ll keep putting in the effort and invisible work until I’m a overnight success 😆

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Candace Nelson's avatar

That’s right. Keep doing the hard work for that “overnight success”😉. Congrats on the book!!!

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Rachel Upshaw's avatar

Yes to all of this!! “That interview moment reminded me: even when we think we’ve outgrown external validation, it has a sneaky way of creeping back in. But it also reminded me to pause and see what I am building—day by day, quietly, intentionally.”

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Joshua Hourigan's avatar

I share and believe your perspective on how negative thoughts can sometimes overwhelm us, but I also believe in the power of resilience. Despite experiencing cognitive distortions that tempt me to give up, I continually remind myself to rise again and persevere. This is simply a part of life!

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Candace Nelson's avatar

Resilience is everything! Love your mindset.

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Smart in the Kitchen's avatar

Enjoyed reading this and completely relate. Also, need to dive deeper into the LinkedIn video situation!

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Candace Nelson's avatar

Yes! Don’t sleep on LinkedIn!!

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