Take Charge of Your Success: What’s Holding You Back?

This week, something really clicked for me—not at a vendor event, but during a weight loss management class. We were talking about how our thoughts affect our feelings, and how those feelings shape our actions.

I couldn’t stop thinking about how this applies to creatives, makers, and small business owners. So many of us are passionate and talented—but still feel stuck. Not because we don’t want it badly enough, but because we’re caught in a loop of unhelpful thoughts that hold us back.

You’re not alone.
We’ve all been there.

The question is:
What’s stopping you from moving forward?
And maybe more importantly—
What would help you take that next step?

Here are a few common roadblocks I hear from vendors—and some ideas for moving past them, both practically and mentally:

“I don’t have the time.”
You’re balancing work, family, and life.

Thought: “I can’t add one more thing.”
Feeling: Overwhelmed
Behavior: You push your goals to the back burner
Try this: Start small. Could you carve out one hour a week? Look into half-day events, evening markets, or even online sales. Consistency doesn’t mean big—it means steady.

“I can’t afford the booth fee.”
Finances are real, and starting out can be tough.

Thought: “If I can’t afford the best booth, I shouldn’t try.”
Feeling: Defeated
Behavior: You miss chances to gain momentum
Try this: Look for community events, library pop-ups, or markets with micro-booths or lower fees. Some events offer scholarships or payment plans—just ask! You can also offer to volunteer or trade. You don’t need the biggest setup to make a big impression.

“I’m nervous I won’t sell anything.”
You’re not alone—every vendor has had this fear.

Thought: “If no one buys, I’ve failed.”
Feeling: Anxious
Behavior: You don’t show up
Try this: Focus on learning, connecting, and showing up. Talk to other vendors (we’ve all been there). View every event as practice and progress—not just profit.

“I don’t know where to start.”
There’s a lot to think about: products, displays, branding, events…

Thought: “It’s all too much.”
Feeling: Stuck
Behavior: You freeze or procrastinate
Try this: Pick one small thing to focus on this month—create a social media page, design a business card, or sign up for a single event. Momentum starts with a single action.

“I don’t feel ready yet.”
Perfectionism and self-doubt can sneak in hard.

Thought: “I’m not good enough yet.”
Feeling: Insecure
Behavior: You delay launching or showing your work
Try this: Start anyway. Look for low-pressure spaces to test things out. You can grow as you go. Done is better than perfect—and real experience is the best teacher.

Here’s what I want you to know:
Not every opportunity is for everyone—and that’s okay.
But if fear, doubt, or overwhelm is stopping you, you’re not stuck.
You just need the right tools, a little encouragement, and a community that gets it.

So let me ask you:
What’s blocking you from taking the next step?

Comment below, send a message, or reply anonymously if you prefer. I’d love to know how I (or others in this space) can support you. Whether it’s simpler processes, budgeting tips, connection, or confidence—we’re stronger together.

#CreativeMindset #VendorSupport #TakeChargeOfYourSuccess #YouAreNotAlone #CommunityMatters #StartWhereYouAre