Hi ,
I feel like this is becoming a year of reflection and, potentially, reimagining for many. Especially when it comes to work. One where you’ve got decisions to make, maybe even dreams and a clear vision of the work you truly want to do—but there is one big obstacle: you’re waiting for permission to do it.
I feel your pain.
I have waited for a nod from potential collaborators, partners, key players, trusted advisors, even validation from friends and family before taking that leap. And while I was waiting, precious time slipped by.
Why Waiting for Permission Is a Trap
Waiting might feel safe, but it often keeps you stuck in a cycle of hesitation and self-doubt.
Here’s how it impacts you:
1. Stifled Creativity and Energy
When you hold back, you also hold back the creative energy that comes from taking bold action. Every moment spent waiting is a moment of untapped potential—an opportunity to explore, experiment, and ignite your inner drive that becomes stifled and delayed, maybe even permanently.
2. The Illusion of “The Right Time”
There’s always a perfect moment, right? Until you realize that “the right time” is a moving target. By the time you feel fully ready, the window of opportunity may have closed. Your dreams shouldn’t have to wait for ideal circumstances—they deserve your bold action now. You will never have perfect information or conditions. Your own action is what wills the moment into reality.
3. Dependency on External Validation
Relying on others to give you the green light can leave you feeling powerless. You’re handing over agency and autonomy, which is profoundly demotivating. True empowerment comes when you trust yourself and embrace the belief that your dreams are valid, or at least worthy of exploration, no matter what anyone else thinks.
Unlocking Your Potential: How to Give Yourself Permission Now
If you’re ready to break free from the trap of waiting, here are some actionable steps to help you take charge:
Define Your Dream Clearly
Take a moment to sit down with a pen and paper (or your favorite digital tool) and write down what you truly desire in your career and life. Dive deep into the details:
- Visualize Your Ideal Day: What does a day in your dream life look like? Consider where you are, what you’re doing, who you’re with, and—most importantly—how you feel.
- Capture the Small Moments: As you reflect, notice the moments in your current life that already feel like glimpses of that dream. Is it a project that sparks joy? A conversation that leaves you inspired? Recognizing these instances can help you pinpoint the elements that matter most to you.
- Get Specific: Instead of vague ideas like “I want to be happy,” aim for clarity: “I want a role where I can blend creativity and strategy, collaborate with innovative thinkers, and have the flexibility to manage my own time.”
When your vision is crystal clear, every small action you take becomes a deliberate step toward making that dream your reality.
Reclaim Your Authority
Often, we are our own harshest critics, stifling our own potential with self-doubt and the need for external approval. Remember: you are the expert of your own life.
- Flip the Script: Instead of asking, “Do I have permission to pursue this?” challenge yourself with, “What’s really stopping me?” This simple shift forces you to confront internal barriers head-on, rather than waiting for someone else’s validation.
- Trust Your Instincts: Deep down, you know what resonates with your Sparketype®. Trust that inner voice. The permission you need isn’t granted by others—it comes from embracing your own wisdom and taking responsibility for your path.
- Own Your Decisions: Every time you make a decision based on your own inner authority, you strengthen your confidence and diminish the power of doubt. It’s not about being reckless—it’s about aligning your choices with your true self.
Start Small, But Start Now
You don’t have to make a dramatic leap overnight. Instead, begin with small, intentional steps that resonate with your Sparketype.
- Incremental Actions Matter: Whether it’s dedicating an hour a week to work on your passion project, joining a local meetup to connect with like-minded individuals, or simply reading a book that inspires you, every small step builds momentum.
- Set Achievable Goals: Break down your larger vision into bite-sized, actionable tasks. The goal is to DO something—anything—that moves you forward, even if it feels modest at first.
- Celebrate the Small Wins: Acknowledge each achievement along the way. Every small step you take reinforces your commitment and builds the confidence to tackle bigger challenges down the road.
Create a Supportive Environment
Surround yourself with people who inspire and encourage your growth. A community that champions your progress can be a powerful catalyst for change.
- Seek Out Your People: Look for mentors, peers, or groups that share your values and vision. Whether it’s a mastermind group, an online forum, or a local network, find those who uplift and challenge you.
- Cultivate Mutual Support: Remember, you’re not waiting for someone else’s permission to pursue your dreams—but having a supportive environment means you have cheerleaders to celebrate your wins and help you navigate setbacks.
- Invest in Relationships: Often, sharing your aspirations with others can provide new insights and opportunities you hadn’t considered. The right community will keep you accountable and remind you that you’re not alone on this journey.
Embrace the Learning Curve
Taking risks and stepping into the unknown means you might stumble along the way—and that’s perfectly okay.
- See Failures as Lessons: Every misstep is an opportunity to learn and refine your approach. Instead of letting setbacks discourage you, view them as essential feedback on your path.
- Reflect and Adjust: Regularly take time to review what’s working and what isn’t. Adjust your strategies and tactics based on these insights, knowing that every lesson learned brings you one step closer to your dream.
- Practice Patience: Remember that growth is a process. Embracing the learning curve means accepting that mastery and success are built over time through persistent effort and resilience.
The Takeaway
Your dreams are not on hold—waiting for an external signal to begin. They are waiting for you to give yourself permission. When you stop waiting for validation and start acting on your own terms, you unlock a powerful energy that propels you forward. Every action you take, no matter how small, builds momentum toward a life that truly lights you up.
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The Secret Ingredient To a Dream Career and Life
What if the traits we’re told to suppress – being weird, shameless, obsessive, or even manipulative – are actually superpowers in disguise? After an 18-year career as a Google executive leading billion-dollar operations, Jenny Wood reveals how embracing these often-criticized characteristics can unlock bold success. From imposter syndrome to serendipity, this episode is a guide to turning fear into fuel—and embracing the parts of yourself that just might change everything.
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What’s one small step you can take today to move closer to your dream? I’d love to hear from you—hit reply and let me know what you’re ready to pursue!
Stay SPARKED,
Jonathan & the Spark Team
