As I had the chance to participate in the Tartu Startup Fest, I took a moment to browse through the seminars and topics being discussed. Initially, I had no intention of participating in anything, but just wanted to look around and see if something new caught my eye. While scrolling through the agenda, I reminded myself to keep an open mind. I heard someone say, “Even if you already know something, there’s always something new to discover.” But as I continued scanning, I realized that nothing was truly resonating with me, and I started questioning the need for so much advice and whether mentors or coaches are really necessary.

Over the last few years in Estonia, coaching and mentoring have become increasingly popular. Everyone seems to be learning to become a coach or searching for a mentor.

I’ll admit, I was once in that phase too—looking for guidance, craving helpful words, some advice, anything that could help me move forward. I don’t have influential friends, I’m not from a wealthy family, and I don’t have a father figure to guide me on how to succeed in business or life. The only thing I had was myself.

One thing that really stuck with me came from a yoga teacher, who said, “Everything you need is already inside of you. All the answers you’re seeking are within.” Looking back at my life and all the circumstances that pushed me to find my own way, I realized that the answers were always within me. Yes, I read books and followed advice from them, but in the end, I came to understand that those weren’t my stories—they were theirs. The only valuable takeaway from all those books was that if they could do it, so can I.

Another important lesson I learned was that if something were easy, everyone would be doing it. In the end, the decision is yours. I’m not saying you shouldn’t take advantage of the opportunities to work with coaches or mentors—if that works for you, then go for it. But I do think it’s important to be discerning. The advice you receive should resonate with you. If you feel a block, ask yourself: “Is this coming from my ego, or is it something deeper?” Understand whether it aligns with your path and purpose.

I’ve had to test out various things and figure out what works for me. If I need an answer, I go within. It’s become much easier now, almost like having a conversation in my head when I’m in a meditative state. The answers come quickly, and I no longer question them.

The concept of “having faith” was hard for me to grasp at first. What does it really mean? How does it work? How do I have faith? I came up with a little visualization exercise for myself, as I’m good at visualizing. In my mind’s eye, I see myself standing at the bottom of a staircase with a door at the top. The stairs and the door are solid—made of concrete or some material that gives me certainty. Each step is firm, and I know the next stair will be there when I step forward. But as I keep climbing, I reach a door with only carpeted stairs beneath it—still solid, but just carpet, and the door is only framed with a knob and frosted glass. I have to trust that these stairs will hold me. When I open the door, I find another staircase leading higher. But at this second door, there are no stairs or door—only space. The stairs and door only appear when I step forward and reach for the knob.

At first, I was hesitant, afraid I might fall into the void. But even if I did, I could always start over. It’s the practice of trusting that each step will lead to the next, that there really is a stair underfoot every time I take a step. This, to me, is what having faith means.

When I looked at the lectures at the startup event, I realized I’d already been through much of this. I already knew what to do. If I were to face that situation again, I’d know what action to take, or more importantly, who to ask for advice: myself.

I still listen to others when they offer advice, but I take a moment to reflect: Does this align with me? Does it resonate with my path? If it does, I take inspired action. And I’ve found that the best action is always inspired action—the kind that flows naturally. Have you ever experienced that flow state, where everything just falls into place, and manifestations appear almost instantly? If I have a thought to do something but the action doesn’t flow, I don’t force it. I just let it be.

Lately, I’ve been reflecting on the idea: “If something is meant for you, it will never pass you by.” There’s no need to push or force things. Just focus on doing what you love, what makes you happy. And if there are blockages in your life, focus on the areas where things are flowing freely. When you do this, the blockages will eventually clear up. This idea resonates with me, especially when thinking of Abraham Hicks’ teachings, if anyone is familiar with them.

So here’s my message for those who feel they can’t have a coach or mentor for whatever reason: You don’t really need them. Go within. Find your own answers. Yes, creating from within can be challenging, and it can sometimes feel like a lonely road. But the only person you can truly disappoint is yourself if you don’t listen to your own inner guidance.

Remember: If it were easy, everyone would do it. So be the exception. Be the person who does it and inspires others to do the same. Have faith.