Have you ever wanted to get up on stage during amateur comedy night or ask for a raise, but couldn’t muster the courage? Stepping up to a challenge can be daunting, yet rewarding, once you overcome that initial fear. Here are a few tips for talking yourself into (nearly) anything:

+ Look for opportunities. Plan small steps toward your larger challenge. For example, if conquering your fear of public speaking is on the agenda, start with a small audience.

+ Stay positive. Focus on finding solutions to obstacles. For instance, if you don’t know how to use the complex weight systems at the gym, remember that a trainer can show you how.

+ Get inspired. Seek a co-worker who has achieved a raise or promotion and ask what he or she did to receive it.

+ Envision your end goal. Tell yourself you can achieve it because you can, and you will.