Adam Bailey on Embracing Insecurity: A Path to Growth in Business and Leadership

Whenever we enter a new stage in life, the leap is often accompanied by a sense of insecurity. Do we have what it takes to succeed? Are our capabilities and skills enough to get us through? These are just a couple of questions that spring to mind. However, it’s a natural reaction to the unfamiliar, a sign that we’re expanding beyond our comfort zones. 

Adam Bailey, a seasoned entrepreneur and former World Middleweight Muay Thai Champion, perceives this feeling as an integral part of character development. Every time we level up in life, it’s inevitable to feel insecure about our abilities. However, it’s important to understand that it’s only normal when this happens in the beginning. 

If the feelings persist, it means there’s a problem that needs to be addressed. This is one of the main things Adam has learned throughout his career and today he shares a few insights. If you’re in a business or leadership role and you’re feeling this way, here’s what Adam Bailey recommends based on years of experience both as an athlete and a serial entrepreneur: 

• Redefine Your Strengths and Weaknesses

In the realm of business and leadership, people tend to burden themselves with maintaining appearances and eliminating weaknesses entirely. However, Adam stresses that it’s not about erasing weaknesses but about leveraging clear-cut strengths that earned us our positions.

“When running the show,” Adam notes, “it’s not about the absence of weakness; it’s about having distinctive strengths. Those strengths are what earned you a well-deserved seat at the table.”

Limitations or shortcomings are impossible to avoid. We all have them, what matters is what we do with them. Reframing them as strengths can lead to tremendous growth and self-empowerment. This doesn’t mean you should ignore areas that need improvement. It just means that you should start seeing them as opportunities for growth and development rather than letting them hold you back. 

• Embrace Imperfection

In the same vein, it’s crucial to accept that, when you enter a new stage, you might not excel at every task right away. Adam emphasizes the importance of acknowledging these shortcomings while actively working to improve them.

“Embrace the fact that you might struggle with a sizable portion of the tasks at your new level,” Bailey advises, “and that’s perfectly fine. The key is to work diligently on not lingering in that ‘sucking’ phase for long!”

At the end of the day, success doesn’t necessarily mean perfection. Embracing imperfection is not about settling for mediocrity but about understanding that perfection is an unrealistic standard. Success lies in growth, resilience, and the ability to adapt and improve continuously.

• Learn to Grow Through Discomfort

As a former athlete, Adam has learned that discomfort is often accompanied by growth. “If you’ve recently leveled up and felt that gnawing sensation in your gut,” he suggests, “perhaps questioning if you’re out of your depth, then you’re on the right track. The path should challenge you; the destination should prompt tough questions and a hint of fear.”

Discomfort means you’re stepping out of your comfort zone and understanding that it’s part of the process is key. This will ultimately allow you to cultivate resilience, become more adaptable and flexible, be more comfortable with taking risks, and increase your self-confidence. All of these things are essential when you’re trying to succeed as a business owner or leader of any kind. 

• Find Mentors to Support Your Journey

Last but not least, Adam recommends working with a mentor who can support your journey. Finding a mentor and devising a plan to address weaknesses are fundamental steps in the journey. Become persistent at seeking knowledge and learn to ask questions, no matter how basic they may seem. 

“Remember,” Adam highlights, “mastery doesn’t signify the end. The game of learning and self-development is a perpetual journey.” Mentors are rich sources of guidance and wisdom, not to mention they also provide support and challenge us in ways that can support your growth. The key is choosing a mentor whose experience, values, and achievements align with your aspirations.

About Adam Bailey

Adam Bailey is a trailblazer who transitioned from a prolific career as the World Middleweight Muay Thai Champion to becoming a driving force in the fitness industry. With an entrepreneurial spirit fueled by the lessons learned in professional sports, Adam has spearheaded the growth of various fitness enterprises, cementing his status as a successful serial entrepreneur.

As the founder of Pursuit Muay Thai, Australia’s fastest-growing chain of Martial Arts Gyms, Adam has revolutionized the landscape of fitness training. His vision and dedication have led Pursuit Martial Arts to expand rapidly, boasting eight thriving locations in Western Australia and Victoria, with imminent plans for further expansion into Queensland.

Adam’s ambition extends beyond the physical realm, venturing into the dynamic world of e-commerce with the launch of Supa Phat Fight Gear. Moreover, his influence extends to Genesis Health Clubs, formerly known as Bailey Fitness Pty Ltd, a chain of comprehensive health and fitness centers. 

Embrace Insecurity

In conclusion, insecurity isn’t a hindrance; it’s a catalyst for progress. It’s a reminder that we’re evolving, expanding, and becoming better versions of ourselves. As Adam puts it, “The journey toward success is paved with insecurities. Embrace them, grow through them, and witness your ascent.”

To learn more about Adam and his businesses, follow him on Instagram!