Our natural instinct is to wait to be picked. To be noticed. To be given permission.
But the truth is, most of us are already holding what we need. Not everything, but enough to begin. That is the moment everything starts to change. Not when someone chooses you, but when you choose yourself.
When I was transitioning from my role in education, I took a trip to Manhattan for an event led by marketing guru Seth Godin.
That event was inspired by a blog post Seth had written that included these words:
Our cultural instinct is to wait to get picked. To seek out permission, authority and safety that comes from the publisher or talk show host or even a blogger saying, “I pick you.” Once you reject that impulse and realize that no one is going to select you, then you can actually get to work.
No one is going to pick you. Pick yourself.
After the event, I had a chance to chat with Seth. I was carrying a small notebook that had been inspired by the creative energy of Walt Disney.
Seth signed it with such passion that his pen ripped into the pages, leaving an indelible mark. Not only on the notebook but also on my soul.
I want that same passion for you.
I want you to feel the call to share your Meaningful Message with the world so powerfully that it leaves a mark. So clearly that it reshapes the way you see yourself and what you are called to contribute.
Because the world needs to hear what you have to say.
You may not have all the answers yet. You may not feel ready. But all you have is all you need to begin.
Yes, a strong team matters. Wise counsel matters. But choosing to start often begins alone, in quiet confidence, before the rest of the world catches up.
Give yourself permission to take up space.
And here is what is even more powerful. When you choose yourself, you invite others to do the same.
You do not have to wait to be picked. You are already equipped. You are already chosen.
So pick yourself.
Your Story Advantage Question:
What would change if you stopped waiting for permission and started moving with the confidence that what you carry is worth sharing?
