"I Could Do Anything If I Only Knew What It Was" by Barbara Sher is a guide for individuals seeking clarity and direction in their lives. Sher addresses the feeling of being stuck or uncertain about one's path and offers practical advice to discover personal passions and goals. The book provides exercises, reflections, and strategies to help readers identify their strengths, interests, and aspirations. Sher encourages readers to overcome fears and self-doubt, providing tools to create a roadmap toward a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life.
Lessons from "I Could Do Anything If I Only Knew What It Was" by Barbara Sher and Barbara Smith:
1. Reconnect with your "Original Vision": Sher believes we are born with a unique purpose, an "Original Vision" that gets buried under societal pressures and self-doubt. The book provides exercises to help you rediscover this vision by exploring your childhood dreams, recurring themes in your life, and moments of deep satisfaction.
2. Debunk the "Shoulds": We often get stuck in a cycle of pursuing "shoulds" imposed by others or ourselves. Sher encourages challenging these expectations and prioritizing your own desires and values. You'll learn to differentiate between genuine passions and external pressures.
3. Identify your "Blocks": Fear, negativity, and limiting beliefs can prevent us from pursuing our dreams. The book helps you identify your specific "Blocks" and offers practical strategies to overcome them, such as reframing negative thoughts and building self-confidence.
4. Embrace Experimentation: Life is about exploration and discovery. Sher encourages trying new things without the fear of failure. You'll learn how to view setbacks as valuable learning experiences and embrace the iterative process of finding your path.
5. Develop Action Plans: Turning dreams into reality requires concrete steps. The book provides frameworks for creating actionable plans, setting achievable goals, and breaking down large tasks into manageable chunks. You'll learn how to prioritize your time and resources effectively.
6. Build a Support Network: Pursuing your dreams can be challenging, and having a supportive network is crucial. The book emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with people who believe in you and your vision.
7. Celebrate Small Wins: Don't wait for the grand finale to celebrate. The book encourages recognizing and appreciating your progress along the way. Small wins fuel motivation and keep you moving forward.
8. Live a Life of "Yes": Sher's philosophy encourages saying "Yes" to new experiences, opportunities, and possibilities. This mindset fosters growth, learning, and the discovery of unexpected passions.
9. Never Stop Dreaming: The book reminds us that the journey of self-discovery is lifelong. It's okay to change your mind, refine your goals, and continue exploring your potential. Embrace the constant evolution and keep your dreams alive.
