Don’t Let These 5 Lies Hold You Back

As we continue to start strong in 2025, it’s the perfect time to look at the stories we’ve been telling ourselves—and ask if they’re really true.

Most people think their competition is another organization — but what we find is that the true competition is closer to home. It’s ourselves.

That’s because when it comes to business development, the lies we believe can be the very thing that holds us back from reaching our full potential.

Here are the five most common business development lies we tell ourselves and how to overcome each of them.

Spot and overcome these every day, and you’ll accelerate your growth and impact.

Lie #1: “I Can’t Do That”

This is one of the most common lies we tell ourselves.

We tell ourselves that we can’t handle the pressure, make the sale, or take the next step. But the truth is, you can.

Every skill, tool, and connection you need is within your reach.

The key is to stop focusing on what you can’t do and start believing in what you can.

Lie #2: “I Don’t Know What To Do”

When we’re not sure what the client wants, it’s easy to do nothing.

But there’s an obvious next step. Ask them what would be helpful.

”Hey Janine, I’ve really enjoyed working with you this year, but realized I don’t know your priorities for 2025. Let’s hop on a quick call so I can learn where you’re taking your career, and then I’ll know what actions to take to help you succeed.”

It’s so obvious once you see it.

If you’re unsure of what they want, ask them what they want.

Lie #3: “I Might Do It Wrong”

Perfectionism is paralyzing, especially when it comes to business development.

We fear doing something wrong, so we avoid doing anything at all. But the truth is, there are people internally to help us.

Take action. Ask for advice. Call your BD or sales support team. Walk down the hallway and ask a colleague.

Usually, within 10 minutes, the next step will become obvious in a “What if you…” moment.

You can only grow through action.

Lie #4: “I’m Too Busy”

We’ve all been there—feeling overwhelmed by the demands of work and life, thinking we just don’t have time for business development. But here’s the thing: we make time for what matters.

Being too busy is just an excuse we tell ourselves to avoid the discomfort of taking action.

The truth is, if you want to grow, you need to prioritize business development just like any other important task.

Don’t think, “I’m so busy I can’t do anything this week.”

Think, “What tiny actions can I squeeze in that would keep my momentum, even if it’s only a few minutes?”

Statements are brittle. Questions are flexible. Asking the right question will keep you moving forward.

Lie #5: “I’m Going To Look Bad”

This lie is about fear of judgment. We’re afraid to reach out, make a mistake, or put ourselves out there because we think others will see us as unprofessional or incompetent

The reality is no one is judging you as harshly as you think.

People are focused on their own lives, and most will respect your effort, especially if you are genuine and helpful.

You win when you reach out. You win when you leave the message. You win when you hit send.

Disconnect yourself from the outcome you want and just make the offer of helpfulness. Full stop.

For detailed insights, including exact phrasing to overcome these lies, grab a copy of Give to Grow and head straight to Section 2 to help you break free and move forward.

Shoot us an email at contact@bunnellideagroup.com and tell me what lie has been sneaking into your mind lately – and what you’ll be doing differently to overcome it!