Main Character Energy: Four Ways to Show Up for Those Stuck in the Valley of “Analysis Paralysis”
In recent years, many of us have embraced what some call our “Main Character Energy” — stepping into our power, reclaiming our narratives, and boldly taking ownership of our stories. We’ve assumed the starring role in our own lives, deciding that we’re not going to be supporting characters in someone else’s version of success.
But (and there’s a but)…as I was reminded…
With this newfound power comes responsibility. We, the women who have found our stride, who have stepped into leadership and made bold moves, now have a duty to show up for those who haven’t. Because, for every woman standing tall in her Main Character Energy, there are others still stuck in the valley of “Analysis Paralysis.”
You know what I’m talking about. That place where you’re overwhelmed by too many choices, crippled by self-doubt, and stuck in an endless loop of overthinking. The place where opportunities pass by not because you’re incapable, but because you’re paralyzed by indecision.
Why We Must Show Up for Them
We’ve been there. At some point, every woman who has found her power was in that very same valley, unsure of her next step. Maybe we stayed there longer than we needed to, waiting for external validation, waiting for someone else to say, “Yes, you can do this.”
But as we know, people have to “see a thing” — to believe it’s possible. That’s the power of visibility. When women like us show up, lead, and own our stories, we become the proof that transformation is possible. We become the validation that someone else needs to move from stuck to unstoppable.
And that’s the only validation that’s truly needed.
The Power of Representation
When I first started stepping into leadership roles, I didn’t have many examples of women who looked like me or shared my experiences. I spent years second-guessing myself, thinking I needed more credentials, more validation from others to feel worthy of stepping up. But what I really needed was to see women who had already made it to the other side of doubt — women who had claimed their Main Character Energy.
When we show up authentically in our power, we give others permission to do the same. Our very presence becomes a beacon, lighting the way for those still struggling to find their voice, still weighed down by the fear of failure or judgment.
How to Show Up for Others
1. Share Your Story: The path to success isn’t linear, and the more transparent we are about the challenges we’ve faced, the more we normalize the idea that struggle is part of the journey. Sharing our experiences with self-doubt, failure, and eventual triumph helps those in the valley see that it’s possible to climb out.
2. Create Opportunities for Others: Leadership isn’t just about getting ahead — it’s about pulling others up with you. Whether that means mentoring, opening doors, or simply offering words of encouragement, we have the power to help others overcome the barriers holding them back.
3. Model Bold Decision-Making: Those stuck in “Analysis Paralysis” need to see what decisive action looks like. When we make bold decisions and take ownership of them, we demonstrate that it’s okay to move forward without all the answers, to trust ourselves even when things feel uncertain.
4. Be Visible: Don’t shrink yourself. Show up fully and visibly in spaces where you’re needed. Whether it’s on social media, in boardrooms, or in everyday life, your presence alone can shift perspectives. Remember, people need to “see a thing” to believe it’s possible. Be that thing.
The Ripple Effect of Showing Up
When one woman steps into her Main Character Energy, it has a ripple effect. Her confidence, courage, and authenticity inspire others to take their own leaps. And the more women who step into their power, the more we change the narrative for everyone.
So, to those of us who have made it to the other side of doubt: Let’s show up. Not just for ourselves, but for the women still waiting in the wings, for those who haven’t yet found their voice or their way.
Because when we show up for them, we do more than just validate their potential — we help them see that they can be the Main Character in their own story, too.
Call to Action
As you move forward, consider this: Who in your life is still in the valley of doubt? Who can you show up for? Take a moment today to offer a hand, share a word of encouragement, or simply be visible in your power. Sometimes, seeing someone else stand tall is all it takes to inspire another person to rise.
Let’s keep the energy going. Because when we rise, we lift others with us.
About the Author
Patrice W. Lindo is the CEO of Career Nomad, a seasoned career coach, speaker, and thought leader with over 25 years of experience guiding professionals through successful career pivots. With a diverse professional background that includes leadership roles at organizations like TransAmerica, CDC, and KPMG, Patrice has a deep understanding of what it takes to thrive in ever-changing professional environments.
She holds an MBA specializing in Industrial Psychology and Organizational Development, a Master of Art in Education specializing in Instructional Design Technology, and certifications in Ethical AI and Cybersecurity. Patrice’s insights have been featured in major media outlets, including CNBC, Fortune, Today, and Yahoo Finance. Her vibrant storytelling, combined with her strategic approach, captivates audiences and inspires action.
