Amy worked for me for 7 years. She started with me as a junior in high school, and left after she graduated college in 2010. It was a sad day for me. Amy is one of my most favorite people. When she started she was a shy young girl with a great work ethic. When she left, she was like a butterfly who had transformed into a beautiful young woman, who knew her job inside and out, took charge, was not afraid of hard work, always has a smile on her face, and always has a really great attitude.

Amy left my “retail” world for a job in a bank 6 months ago. When she texted me, last week about getting together, she hinted that she might like to come back to work for me, and nothing would make me happier than having her on my team again. I wanted to make this deal happen. BUT, I knew what she was earning in her new job, and in retail, there just isn’t that kind of money. So I started thinking about how to make this happen. I created a position for her. If she managed my 2 franchise stores, I could concentrate on my coaching business and spend my time doing what I am passionate about, and it would definitely be a win/win for both of us.

We met for breakfast to discuss her returning, and as she was taking off her coat Amy said to me, “Jean, you have spoiled me from working for anyone else.” Wow, what a compliment that is for any employer. I offered her a little less than she was making, but with a bonus plan. I put together a nice little package for her. She told me she had already written her letter of resignation, and she liked what she heard, but she would like 24 hours to think about it.Forty-eight hours later, I still had not heard from her. My heart was beginning to sink. I sent her a text that said, “You’re killing me :-) dying to hear from you.” To which she replied, “Hiiii! I’m just worried. I’m taking over a $4000 cut in pay. Is there a chance that at some point you’d be able to at least meet me in the middle? Like….as we go along…see what happens?”

I didn’t know it at the time, but she had already turned in her letter of resignation, but now the fear of that $4000 was starting to get to her. Was she starting to second guess her decision? This got me thinking, how so many people let fear keep them from getting everything they want in life. I was offering Amy almost the same amount of money, she would have complete flexibility in her hours as long as she worked the amount of hours agreed upon, a bonus program, complete control over the staff, paid time off, and a trip with me to Vegas in March to attend a conference I coordinate and put on for my fellow franchisees. Oh.… and to work for the person who spoiled her from working for anyone else.

I could only see the positives, and Amy could only see $4000. What is your fear right now that is keeping you from realizing your goals? What fear keeps you from having the job that you would want, or the partner that you really want? What scares you into staying right where you are? Someone once told me, “You can’t grow if you are comfortable.” Are you comfortable? Have you stopped growing? Are you content to be, or have, or do what you already are, or have, or done? If not, it might be time for a change. Give me a call we can chat about your fears, and help you move forward.

Amy and I talked on the phone, and I reminded her that she could make the $4000 if she hits the bonus plan goals. I think she felt a little relieved, but she still sounded a little fearful. I am happy to say, Amy accepted my offer. I am glad she is a little “uncomfortable” right now. It means she is growing, and I can’t wait to see what this beautiful butterfly transforms into next.