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Stepping into Leadership and Overcoming Self-Doubt: Insights from Nicole Banning


Nicole Banning with her archery bow
Nicole Banning

Introduction


Leadership isn’t easy—especially when balancing personal challenges with professional aspirations. Nicole Banning, a leader, entrepreneur, and mother, has navigated the complexities of leadership by embracing fear, trusting her faith, and building strong relationships.


In her conversation on the Soul Summit Podcast, Nicole shares the key lessons that have shaped her path, offering valuable insights on overcoming self-doubt, stepping into leadership, and finding balance in life.


If you're looking for tools to become a better leader, balance your responsibilities, and grow with purpose, Nicole’s journey offers valuable lessons to help you get there.


Embracing Leadership: Moving Beyond Self-Doubt


When Nicole was offered a leadership role as COO while pregnant with her first child, she was filled with self-doubt. “There’s no way I can do this job,” she recalls. But despite her fears, she said yes—and that decision changed everything.


Nicole’s story shows that sometimes the best opportunities come when we feel least prepared. It’s in those moments of doubt that we often experience the most growth. If you’re faced with a challenge that scares you, embrace it. You may find that you’re more capable than you thought.


Conquering Fear: Doing It Afraid


Nicole embraces the idea of “doing it afraid.” "You don’t need to wait for fear to go away," she says. "You can do it afraid." Fear often signals that we’re on the edge of growth. Nicole learned that stepping through fear opens doors to new opportunities and strengthens resilience.


Next time fear holds you back, take a step forward, no matter how small. Every action you take, even with fear, moves you closer to your goals.


Faith as a Foundation for Resilience


Nicole credits much of her success to her faith. "As long as you're stepping out in faith and relying on Him, He has you," she says. Faith has given her the strength to make tough decisions and trust that everything will unfold as it should.


When things feel uncertain, lean into your faith—whether through prayer, reflection, or trust in the process. Let faith be the anchor that keeps you grounded as you face life’s challenges.


The Power of Mentorship in Leadership


Mentorship played a crucial role in Nicole’s journey. Her father, a successful CEO, guided her through the challenges of leadership. “There was never a dumb question. He helped me fill in the gaps of what I didn’t know,” she recalls.


Finding a mentor who believes in you and helps you grow can make all the difference. Seek out someone who can provide wisdom and support as you step into leadership.


Balancing Career, Family, and Self-Care


As a single mother and entrepreneur, Nicole has faced the challenge of balancing her career with family responsibilities. But she’s found peace and balance by prioritizing time with her children and spending time outdoors.


Make time for self-care and for your loved ones. Whether it’s a walk in nature or simply being present with your family, these moments of balance help you recharge and stay focused on your purpose.


Building Strong Relationships for Success


Nicole’s success is rooted in the relationships she’s built along the way. "Almost everything in life is about relationships," she says. By investing in relationships with family, colleagues, and mentors, Nicole has created a strong support system that has helped her thrive.


Focus on nurturing your relationships. Treat others with kindness and respect, and build connections that will support your personal and professional growth.


Conclusion


Nicole Banning’s journey reminds us that leadership is about more than just skill—it’s about embracing fear, trusting in something greater, and building meaningful relationships. Whether you’re stepping into a leadership role or navigating personal growth, her story offers actionable insights on how to live with purpose, faith, and integrity.


Ready to take the next step in your journey? Apply the lessons from Nicole’s story to your own life, and if you’re looking for more guidance on overcoming fear and stepping into growth, check out our blog, Born Primitive: The Story of a Purpose-Driven Entrepreneur. Keep moving forward with purpose and confidence!


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