Before the Outer Battles, Fight the Inner Ones

In life and in entrepreneurship, it’s tempting to focus on external challenges—the competition, market conditions, or the endless tasks on our to-do lists. But one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned this year is that the battles that matter most start within us.

The battle within always precedes the battle without.

Let Me Explain:

Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with uncertainty and high stakes. But as much as I prepared to take on external challenges, I wasn’t ready for the emotional and mental struggles that came with it.

In 2024, I found myself fighting internal battles that felt even harder than the external ones:

• Doubt: “Am I good enough to do this?”
• Impostor Syndrome: “Do I really belong in this space?”
• Fear of Public Speaking: “What if I stumble and fail in front of others?”

These voices often screamed louder than any external challenge.

What i’ve learned along the way

1. Facing the Inner Critic

The first step to winning the battle within is recognizing its presence. This year, I learned to separate the noise of self-doubt from reality.

“If you hear a voice within you say ‘you cannot paint,’ then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced.” – Vincent Van Gogh

I realized that doubt isn’t proof of incapability. It’s a natural reaction to stepping into the unknown.

2. Building Resilience Through Action

For me, the fear of public speaking was a significant hurdle. I wanted to connect with people, but my nerves often got in the way. The solution? Doing it scared.

Every time I stood in front of an audience, no matter how small, I chipped away at that fear. Over time, it became less of a roadblock and more of an opportunity to grow.

3. Redefining Success

Impostor syndrome has a way of making you feel like a fraud, no matter how much you accomplish. I’ve learned to redefine success not as perfection, but as progress.

“Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow.’” – Mary Anne Radmacher

4. The Power of Reflection

Journaling became my secret weapon this year. By putting my thoughts on paper, I could untangle the web of emotions and find clarity. It’s a practice I now treasure as a tool for self-discovery and growth.

Bringing It Home:

Winning the battle within doesn’t mean silencing your fears or doubts forever. It means learning to navigate them, to use them as fuel rather than obstacles.

Before we can conquer the world, we must conquer ourselves. The journey is ongoing, but every small victory adds up.

Recommended Read:
One book that completely reshaped my perspective on inner battles is The War of Art by Steven Pressfield. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to overcome resistance and unlock their full potential.

Learning never stops.
Take a moment to reflect and act on what resonates with you.
Keep evolving.
– MJ Nyota