As we build character and reputation for ourselves, there is the risk that the effort may overlook our idiosyncratic fragilities and thresholds that we have towards certain things.

We build strong, powerful personalities with a sense of pride and victory over vulnerabilities, not so?

In the event that stakeholders in our lives over estimate our capacity for resilience and are expectant of the “super person” effect, what options are available to us?

First, there is a possibility that you will be the only one feeling insufficient in the room, amidst all the confidence from those around you that the task or activity is a walk in the park. Then it dawns upon you that you need to balance your expectations with those of the people around you…

Take a deep breath… exercise quiet patience with yourself while aligning your being with that peak of courage that you perhaps will be visiting for the first time. Engage your mind to be open to the possibility of disappointment from your cheerleaders but also that you are coming strong with candor and honesty as you seek to find a solution, notwithstanding.

Deliver the communication in an emotionally and ethically intelligent manner as you seek understanding and support from stakeholders. Don’t tell them that you are unable, but rather that the task requires certain inputs to enable the resilience that they expect from you.