Embracing the Unknown: What If No One Shows Up?
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Chapter 1: Confronting Our Fears
The thought of “What if no one shows up?” often looms large, especially when taking a leap into new ventures. This fear once prevented me from launching my inaugural webinar for my audience. Despite my experience speaking at over 50 podcasts and conferences, the idea of facing a screen alone felt daunting.
Questions flooded my mind:
- What if it fails?
- What if I’m the failure?
It’s common to have such thoughts; they plague us all at different stages. However, I chose to dismiss these self-defeating voices. On May 28, I finally hosted that webinar on self-publishing. Although only 6 participants attended, I felt a sense of pride. That was my starting point—my own personal ground zero.
Every journey has a beginning, and yours deserves to be celebrated. In the month that followed, I witnessed 35 subscribers upgrade their memberships. Ironically, the very fear that once paralyzed me became the catalyst for my growth.
Courage resides just beyond fear.
I realized I was asking the wrong question. Instead of dwelling on the possibility of no one attending, I should have been asking, “What if one person shows up?” This shift in perspective embodies an abundance mindset, focusing on the impact we can have on even a single individual.
My mother’s experience illustrates this well. Twelve years ago, she opened a restaurant in the Canary Islands. Some days, the number of customers was dishearteningly low. Yet, she always prepared as if expecting a full house—tables elegantly set, food ready, and soft music playing.
No matter if only two customers arrived or a full dining room, her dedication remained unwavering. Her mindset? To give her best to whoever walked through the door. Today, her restaurant stands as the most successful on the island.
Be Ready to Show Up
Whatever you are creating, showing up consistently is vital. In 2023, shortly after launching my Substack, I was surprised to receive my first paid subscriber. This motivated me to elevate my efforts, leading to the publication of exclusive articles. For weeks, I wrote for that single individual—my one paid subscriber.
I didn’t allow myself to slack off. I kept my commitment and continued to show up for that one person. Gradually, more joined—first 2, then 10, and now I proudly serve 80 subscribers. While I aspire to reach thousands one day, it all began with just one.
The Impact of One
Prepare to engage even if you find yourself addressing a silent audience. Step onto the stage and perform as if the room is filled to capacity. Host your finest presentation, regardless of attendance.
Next time self-doubt creeps in, ask yourself, “What if one person shows up?” Dress to impress, hold your head high, and share your best smile. Present as though the stage were full because, eventually, it will be. I may not know who will show up, but I will always be ready.
What to do when nobody shows up to your Open House? - This video provides insights on handling the fear and anxiety of low attendance at events, emphasizing the importance of preparation and a positive mindset.
What if nobody shows up? - This discussion explores strategies for overcoming the fear of hosting events and focuses on the potential impact on even a single attendee.
Chapter 2: The Lemon Tree Mindset
Discover how embracing challenges can lead to growth and opportunity.