Last week as I was conducting the End Underearning teleclass, I realized how very difficult it is for most people to make the internal shifts and take the external actions necessary for permanently altering their financial position.

I can give people all the advice in the world with the most specific proven techniques, but they have to take that final step away from their past into a prosperous future.

I remember clearly, although it was way back in 1984, when an up-and-coming seminar leader who was rooming with a friend of mine invited me to his workshop. I had no idea that Tony Robbins’s workshop included a firewalk.

After a few hours of motivating the audience in his inimitable way, Tony had us all line up and get ready to walk over the coals, despite our fear of “bloody stumps” and other imagined horrors. I can still recall the dialogue in my head as I gradually moved myself to the end of the line and tried to talk myself out of walking over the coals.

There I was, next to last, when suddenly this voice boomed out from inside my being, “Joan, you can do it!”

I took a few deep breaths and did it. I walked over the coals without injuring myself in any way. Fortunately, someone was there to catch me and give me the hug I really needed.

It was at that moment that I knew that I had the strength to do what ever it took to heal my physical body and find my way out of the dependent, broken position I inhabited.

Since that time, I have gotten my pilot’s license, done ropes courses, and given everything I owned away so I could start anew, each of which has strengthened my resolve and determination.

Here’s an example:

So my question for you today is, what will it take for you to let go and walk over the coals of your own resistance? What will it take for you to risk unknown consequences for the chance to live a fuller, more satisfying life? What will it take for you to reach down inside of you and activate the inner power that is there so you can let go of your fears and have faith in your ability to create a fabulous future?

Although no two people have the same abilities or approach to life, and some are born with more courage than others, there’s a place inside of you where untapped energy is waiting to be freed so you can shine — and prosper.

I hope you’ll find that place within yourself that has the courage to change.