The biggest step I ever took outside my comfort zone? Writing my first fiction book.

I was terrified.

“Why would anyone read this?” I thought.
“Why would anyone pay for something I created?”

Deep down, I struggled with a belief that maybe you’ve felt too—that anything coming from me had no value. That my ideas weren’t special enough. That I wasn’t good enough.

But I took the leap anyway. I wrote the book, put it out into the world, and waited.

The Response That Changed Everything

Some people hated it. Their criticism stung. I’d be lying if I said it didn’t. But it didn’t stop there.

Some people loved it.

And those people? They reminded me why I wrote it in the first place.

I heard their stories—how the book touched them, made them feel seen, or inspired them. Their kind words and encouragement lit a spark inside me that hadn’t been there before.

It made me realise something I wish I’d known from the start:

The Insight That Helped Me Push Forward

You have just as much reason as anyone else to write a book, create content, or pursue your dream.

No one has a monopoly on value.

Your ideas, your voice, your work—it could be exactly what someone needs today.

Here’s the truth that changed how I see my work and myself:

• Just because it comes from you doesn’t make it less valuable.
• Some people will hate it, and that’s okay. They’re not your people.
• Others will love it—and those are the ones who matter.

Every time I doubted myself, I held on to this: The people who love your work are proof that your efforts matter. That you have something valuable to give.

What’s Holding You Back?

Maybe you’ve been holding back on your own leap. Maybe it’s writing a book, starting a business, sharing your art, or launching that podcast idea you’ve been sitting on.

I get it—putting yourself out there feels vulnerable, scary, even impossible. But here’s what I learned from my own journey:

The fear of starting doesn’t go away. You just have to act anyway.

Take the Leap

So, what’s the thing you’ve been holding back on?

Take the first step. It won’t be perfect, and not everyone will love it—but those who do? They’re the ones who need it most.

Your idea could change someone’s life. And in the process, it just might change yours, too.

Imagine standing at a crossroads with two very distinct paths ahead. One is paved with the expectations of others, lined with approval that feels as fleeting as morning mist. The other? It’s rugged and winding, but it leads to a place that feels undeniably you. Which path would you take?

Many of us unconsciously choose the first path, the one built on other people’s opinions. It’s a road riddled with questions like, “What will they think?” or “Is this good enough for them?” At first, it seems safe—structured, even predictable. But soon, it becomes exhausting. You start waiting for permission to take the next step, with approval becoming the currency of your life. And when that approval doesn’t come? You’re left feeling stuck and incomplete.

But let’s talk about the other road—the one that demands courage and self-trust. This is the path of building your life around what truly makes you happy. It’s liberating, isn’t it? When you stop seeking validation from others, you act not because someone said it’s okay, but because it aligns with your purpose. Funny how that works. The more you honour what feels true to you, the more fulfilling and meaningful your life becomes.

The Trap of Waiting for Permission

Think back to a time when you hesitated on a dream, waiting for someone else to tell you, “Yes, you’re good enough.” How long did you wait? And what did it cost you? Waiting for validation doesn’t just delay your dreams—it steals the joy of living authentically.

Society, culture, and sometimes even well-meaning loved ones can unknowingly set these traps. But here’s the truth: no one else has the authority to write your life’s story. The pen belongs to you.

Reclaiming Your Narrative

When you decide to build your life around what truly lights you up, you take control of that pen. Your story becomes about your values, your desires, and your impact. It’s not about pleasing a crowd but about feeling proud of what you’re creating.

But how do you start? Here are three steps to move from permission to passion:

1. Listen to Yourself: Spend time reflecting on what brings you joy and fulfilment. Journaling, meditating, or even talking to someone who inspires you can help clarify your direction.
2. Take One Bold Step: You don’t need a perfect plan; you just need to start. Whether it’s enrolling in a class, starting a side hustle, or even setting boundaries with someone who doubts your vision, action builds momentum.
3. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection: Living authentically isn’t about getting it “right” but about staying true to yourself. Every step forward is a victory, no matter how small.

Your Turn to Choose

So, what’s it going to be? Will you wait for permission to take your next step, or will you pick up the pen and start writing your own script? The latter isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. You weren’t born to follow someone else’s vision for your life. You’re here to create your own.

Ready to take control of your life’s story? Download two free books that will help you turn passion into profits and unlock the confidence to pursue your dreams. Don’t wait—your future is calling. Get your free books here.