Consulting Life – Feel the Fear, and Climb On Anyway

This was not my idea.

A few years ago, I was in Fort Worth, Texas, with a work colleague. “Come on,” she said, “you’ve got to do it. Just get on the longhorn. It’ll be hilarious.”

So, I did. Still reacting to peer pressure in my late 40s!

You can see my face – clinging on with a nervous grin, not quite convinced this beast won’t end me. Large animals make me very nervous, and I also felt a bit ridiculous sitting up there.

But I did it anyway. Part of me knew it was a moment to say yes to – however scared I was. And maybe, in hindsight, a perfect metaphor for what life feels like now as an independent consultant.

I spent years working my way to the top. Built a career, climbed the ladder, led teams, earned trust, created impact. And while there was always uncertainty (and plenty of politics – I’ve discussed this before!), there was also a safety net. A salary. A structure. A ladder with clear-ish rungs.

Now?

I run my own business. I work for myself. I have clients to serve, a reputation to build, and a family I want to provide for. That safety net is gone. And let’s be honest – that can be terrifying.

But here’s the thing: fear isn’t always a sign to stop. Sometimes, it’s a signal you’re stretching.

So yes – I worry. That the proposal will fall flat. That the client won’t renew. That my new life might not pay off.

But I get up every day and do the work. Because the work matters. And because there’s something deeply fulfilling about building something of your own – not for ego, but for impact and happiness.

Here’s what I’m learning (again):

✅ You don’t have to look fearless to be brave

✅ Most growth happens after the point you want to back away

✅ Just because something’s hard doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it

So, when I feel that same sensation – heart rate up, gut clenching, mind racing – I need to remember the longhorn! And I remind myself:

Feel the fear. Climb on anyway.