I just returned from being on an Oprah Magazine Cruise with Holland America and am still sitting in the experience. I met so many amazing people and got to speak to and coach a different demographic than I’m used to. And while having lunch and random conversations with so many of these people throughout the week, I realized that we’re all the same, and we’re all tested at one time or another.

Never be ashamed of your dreams or the thing you want to do the most. There will always be tests along the way that test your faith. And while they’re often super uncomfortable, they are 100% necessary to help you realize your dreams. Instead of giving up, say “bring it!” This is your faith practice. It’s digging in your heels, being scared, and not feeling good – and moving forward anyway. After all how can you be tested if you’re not experiencing it?

“It’s OK to be afraid, but it’s not OK to give up.”

So lean in. Experience it. Let time help you work through it. Your faith is tested by often extreme measures. Learn how to support yourself through it. Who can you call? Can you pray, meditate or read a book? What keeps that faith alive? Just as you would study or prepare for a test, you must prepare (not avoid) the tests that come up around your dream.

“Don’t resist the test, prepare for it – it’s how you pass.”

These tests will strengthen you and help refine what you’re meant to do. Stop avoiding them.

“You don’t get better or get the reward unless you keep showing up – no matter the result.”

So keep showing up. Let go where you can and know that you’re not alone. Something beautiful is just around the corner. Are you ready for it?

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