#6: Niki Sterner | Raising Kids While Rising Myself

Ever felt stuck waiting to feel ready before taking that big leap? Niki Sterner discovered the secret isn't waiting for confidence to arrive—it's taking courageous action first and letting confidence follow.The Confidence Shortcut revolves around three essential pillars: mindset, path, and action. When these elements align, transformation happens faster than you might believe possible. Niki vulnerably shares how she spent years playing small until she developed a system that helped her reconnect with her dreams and take bold action despite her fears.One particularly powerful ritual Niki describes is her "burning ceremony," where she wrote down all her limiting beliefs, read them aloud to her family, and set them on fire—symbolically releasing what had held her back. This act of courage created ripple effects not just in her life but in her children's lives too. They've since stepped into leadership roles, tried new things, and embraced challenges they previously would have avoided.For parents especially, Niki addresses the guilt that can come with pursuing personal dreams while balancing family responsibilities. She's discovered that quality time matters more than quantity, and modeling courage for her children has become one of her greatest gifts to them. When we evolve, we give permission to those around us to do the same.Whether you're facing career transitions, creative blocks, or simply feeling that there's more to life than what you're currently experiencing, this episode offers practical wisdom for moving forward. As Niki says, "Pick something and jump"—because the shortcut to confidence is courage, and what's meant for you will never pass you by. Ready to take your first step? Download the free Confidence Kickstart Morning Routine in the show notes and start building momentum today.New episodes every week — packed with honest conversations, mindset tools, and real-life shortcuts to help you move before you feel ready, build confidence through action, and create your Bigger Life.📌 Subscribe + share if you're ready to stop overthinking and finally move forward messy.💛 For weekly inspiration, podcast updates, book launch news, 50-State Courage Tour adventures, and practical tools to help you move before you feel ready, join the Move Forward Messy Newsletter.✨ Grab your free Confidence Kickstart Guide.