“Our doubts are traitors and make us lose the good we oft might win by fearing to attempt.”
– William Shakespeare
My daughter Jane is in her final year of secondary/high school, which means there are big exams looming on the horizon. It’s a full-on time, as I’m sure many of you with children—or memories of your own school days—can relate to.
Last week, I noticed something new in her bedroom. Above her study table, she had taped up a simple self-made poster with these words:
“The only thing stopping you, is me.”
I had to smile when I saw it. Such a simple statement, and yet so profound.
When I asked her about it, she said it was a reminder that she has the power to take ownership of her progress—and her mindset.
In my experience, getting in your own way is a universal experience. We don’t always put up literal posters, but we often carry inner ones—subtle beliefs, habits, or fears that whisper, “You’re not ready,” “This will never work,” or “You can’t do this.”
Often, the biggest obstacle between where we are and where we want to be isn’t the external challenges or circumstances we face.
It’s the inner resistance we’ve built over time:
- The self-doubt that tells us to play small.
- The procrastination that keeps us from starting.
- The stories we tell ourselves about why things are too hard or too risky. Or why we’re not good enough.
But here’s the good news: if we’re the ones in our own way, we also have the power to step aside.
It starts with self-awareness—seeing where we’re holding ourselves back.
Then, little by little, we can challenge those old patterns. We can step outside those limiting beliefs and mental habits into something more supportive.
So, this week here’s something to reflect on:
What’s one area of your life where you’ve been standing in your own way? And what’s one small step you could take this week to move forward?
Jane’s poster is a powerful reminder that while the road ahead might not always be easy, we often have more control than we think – regardless of our circumstances.
Here’s to stepping aside, getting out of our own way, and creating a great year all round.
Best,
Shane
P.S. If this message resonates with you, I’d love for you to join my webinar, Win in 2025, later today. It’s all about setting yourself up for true success this year, and I’ll be sharing some new insights about what has made the biggest different to me in recent years. In particular how my approach to setting goals has completely changed. Everyone who registers will get access to the recording afterwards. Details here.
PPS – A photo of Jane’s poster is below.

The Inner Edge Podcast – Most Recent Episode:
Ep 213: What’s In & Out For the Year Ahead?
Listen on my website here or on all major podcasting platforms.
Up Your Game: Have you checked out my online academy? It has a range of products that will help you raise your game in all areas. More details here.
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