The Journey That Tests You
Introduction:
Why Most People Never Get There — and What It Really Takes
I’ve got a warm cup of chamomile tea next to me as I write this. It’s one of those quiet, cloudy days here in England — the kind that slows you down just enough to think a little deeper.
If you're reading this, maybe you're in that in-between place.
Maybe you're dreaming about starting something new — a business, a career change, or simply stepping into more of who you really are.
But… something’s holding you back.
A lack of clarity? A fear of failing? Or maybe — confidence. That quiet voice inside that once said “You can do this” has gone… quiet.
Today, I want to talk about why that happens. Why success — real success — is often not what we imagine. Why some people give up, and others keep going, even when the odds are stacked against them.
And I want to tell you a story.
One that stayed with me for years.
A true story about a man named Greg.
Greg’s Story: From Physics Graduate to Award-Winning Designer:
Greg studied physics — a brilliant mind, full of promise. But after university, nothing clicked. For three long years, he was unemployed.
Instead of giving in to frustration, Greg chose to bet on himself. He didn’t just pick up a new language — he mastered it, even perfecting an American accent. That skill led to small jobs that helped him stay on his feet.
At 32, things were tough: back living with his parents in a small city, no glamor, no stability — just the basics.
Yet, what Greg did have was curiosity and a spark.
While in university, a friend had introduced him to the world of audio engineering — speakers, sound design, acoustic precision.
Every weekend, Greg took a long train ride back to his university city, spending hours experimenting and learning — building his dream one piece at a time.
Weekdays were for paying the bills. Weekends were for building his passion.
For a whole year, with no shortcuts or applause.
Then, he decided it was time to go all in.
He moved back, took a better-paid IT job to fund his dream, bought his own tools, and started building prototypes.
Now?
Greg wins international design awards.
His products are recognized in the audiophile community worldwide.
His creations ship across Europe, the U.S., and beyond.
Why did Greg succeed?
What Greg’s Story Teaches Us About Confidence and Success
Confidence grows through doing.
It’s built by showing up, finishing things, and trusting yourself, even when the path isn’t clear.
Growth requires sacrifice.
Sometimes, you have to live with discomfort, uncertainty, and the grind — like Greg did commuting every weekend for his passion.Find your right environment.
Confidence doesn’t flourish in places where you feel unseen or unvalued. Greg’s environment shifted when he invested time with friends who inspired him.Know your strengths.
Tools like the CliftonStrengths assessment can illuminate what you naturally excel at — so you can build your life and career around it.
Why You Don’t Have to Wait to Feel Ready
So many people wait for clarity or a perfect moment.
But Greg’s story shows that confidence and success come from small, steady steps, fueled by passion and persistence.
If you’re stuck, ask yourself:
What can I add to my life today that builds me up?
Where can I find people who see me, value my talents?
How can I grow my strengths, not just try harder?
Your Confidence is Waiting
Your confidence isn’t lost. It might just be in a quiet place, waiting to be heard again.
Be like Greg: patient, curious, persistent.
Keep building.
Keep showing up.
And remember: Success isn’t always loud, fast, or perfect — but it’s real and lasting.
Interested in discovering your strengths and boosting your confidence?
Try the CliftonStrengths assessment — it changed Greg’s life and can transform yours.
