The secret to getting ahead is getting started.

– Mark Twain (supposedly…)

I wasn’t ready to be a manager when I first landed that promotion.

I wasn’t ready to quit my job when I answered a calling to explore.

I wasn’t ready to be a coach when I started my business.

I wasn’t ready to lead a room full of yogis when I became a teacher.

I wasn’t ready to survive a black diamond ski run when I gave it a go.

I wasn’t ready for an Ironman when I took the plunge.

I wasn’t ready for married life when I tied the knot.

I wasn’t ready to do these things, but I did them anyway.

What happened next?

I became a better leader.

I became a better explorer.

I became a better coach.

I became a better teacher.

I became a better skier.

I became a better triathlete.

I became a better husband.

What have I learned?

I’ve spoken to, and coached; doctors, lawyers, business owners, corporate executives and other high performers.

I’ve also studied the life stories of dozens of success people.

Not a single person felt “ready” when they started doing things they are now famous for.

The paradox of success is that you become outstanding at something by doing it in spite of your insecurity.

Technology companies understand this paradox. They embrace an attitude of learning by shipping.

What does this mean for you?

Don’t wait for your feelings to change in order to act. Act and your feelings will change.

You must start before you “feel” ready.

I don’t know what you are looking to do. I don’t know what you would like to have. I don’t know who you desire to be.

All I know is that you are READY NOW.

Call for comments

What are you ready to start doing now?

It would make my day to hear from you in the comments below!