Maybe you are in a role that pays well but drains you, or the pressure of life's responsibilities is keeping you stuck in a job you hate. 

The desire for change is growing, but acting on it can feel terrifying. There is so much to lose, so much uncertainty, and often so little time to actually pause and think about what you really want in your career and life.

And yet, without that pause, nothing changes. Before you know it a year has gone by, and you are still stuck. You start wondering if maybe you are just not cut out for more. Maybe you should be grateful. Maybe you should just wait it out.

This was me! But at the time I couldn’t pin point what it was that wasn’t working for me. The pressure of having two kids, a mortgage and negative savings was weighing me down, and I felt trapped in a life that was etching me away day by day. 

Yet, I took the leap and made some significant changes in my life. And the things that keep me going?

People. 

What I have learned over the years is that courage rarely shows itself when we are in isolation. I know this because the moments when self-doubt has hit me hardest are almost always the moments when I am trying to figure it all out on my own.

I have learned what works for me, picking up the phone to a friend, dropping my favourite group of like-minded women a WhatsApp message, or enrolling onto some training where I can immerse myself around people brimming full of the same energy (and often self doubt) I have. The positivity and support is exactly what I need to keep going. A reminder that I am not alone. That what I am building matters. That the self doubt will pass.

We live in a world where, all day long, we are shown other people’s highlight reels on social media, in networking circles, even at the school gates. The fabulous job, dream house, sometimes the seven-figure business. And on, and on it goes.

But what if all we want is a career and life we simply enjoy? A career or business that feels meaningful and sustainable and our own?

Surely that should not be so difficult!

And yet, when self-doubt creeps in (because it always does) we need more than just a solid plan. We need people and connection who can remind us that we are not crazy or lazy or behind, we are simply human and every day is part of our journey and despite being tough we should enjoy it. 

Yes, an action plan can give us focus. But it is the people we surround ourselves with who make the journey lighter. Who bring joy and energy and perspective when the path feels long, and achievable.

I am endlessly inspired by the people in my corner. My mentor, who leads with kindness and razor-sharp business sense. The giants whose stories and struggles I have followed through podcasts and books. My wonderful partner, who never questions the late nights or the early mornings, who listens intently to my excited ramblings and latest ideas, and the quiet doubts too. My friends, colleagues and clients. They ground me. And they keep me moving.

So if you are in a season where momentum feels fragile, where the change you want still feels too risky or out of reach, here are three ways to bring more accountability and connection into your life right now.

3 simple ways to build accountability

Join a structured space with shared purpose
Whether it is a coaching group, a mastermind, or a workshop community, being in a room (virtual or not) with people who are working toward something meaningful can shift your whole mindset. You are not the only one navigating uncertainty, and that reminder alone can create powerful momentum. Over the years I have taken part in training and masterminds, some funded through my work, and some self funded - but have made the most of the connections that have been forged. Yes, some fade fast, some burn long and low but trust your gut and find what works for you. 

Pair up with a trusted peer
You do not need a big group. One thoughtful check-in each week with someone who “gets it” can make all the difference. You can keep it simple: What are you working on? What is one action you will take before we speak again? I have a few trusted kick ass people who I can drop a message to anytime and know I will get a response. We keep each other going when it’s needed most. 

Start your own pod
One of my favourite things that you can create today is your own pod - yes, you can create one! No need to wait for someone else to do so. There is literally nothing stopping you, and everything to gain! Reach out to a few trusted and likeminded colleagues or friends who are also in seasons of change. Create a rhythm that works for you, monthly coffee chats, Friday accountability emails, voice notes back and forth. It is less about structure and more about consistency, connection, and showing up for each other. If you are in a large organisation, then you literally have thousands of people at your fingertips, and if not then reach out to local networking events or communities. 

Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, if you are wanting an accountability pod then I can guarantee that others will too - they are just waiting for you to take the first step. 

And remember…

You don’t have to do it all on your own. Find your people. Start where you are. And remember: the road is so much easier to walk when someone else is walking it with you.

If you are ready to take the first step to create a career you love, the Career Clarity Compass is my brand new resource designed to help you figure out where you are, what is keeping you stuck right now, and how to move forward in the areas that need it most.

You can download your free copy here 👉 Career Clarity Compass 🎉

Always with love, 

Elsa x