When people ask, “What made you do that?” I usually say I’m crazier than most. Honestly, I don’t have a better explanation for why I take on challenges that many wouldn’t even consider, other than I enjoy pushing myself and making the biggest impact I can in the world. We only have one life, right? I want my last days on Earth to be filled with gratitude, knowing I was brave enough to take some unconventional paths. And along the way, maybe I can inspire a few others to be brave enough to bet on themselves, too.
Whenever I step into a new arena, I don’t expect smooth sailing. Things will likely be a bit clunky in the beginning, and there’s a good chance I’ll trip and fall. But one of the best parts of being over 50 (53, to be exact) is the years of experience I have in getting back up after I fall, dusting myself off, and jumping back into it. I owe my resilience to my upbringing in the ’70s—where the rule was simple: no crying or whining unless you are bleeding (and not the kind that could be fixed with a band-aid). Just because I was a girl didn’t mean I couldn’t chop wood and stack it in the woodshed for winter. We all had to pull our weight. As much as I resented it back then, I’m grateful for it now.
There will always be a few people who think, “Who does she think she is?” when I take on a new challenge or move forward in pursuit of my passion. But as Theodore Roosevelt once said, “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena.” Brene Brown echoes this sentiment: “Your opinion doesn’t count if you’re chirping from the cheap seats.” Basically, if you aren’t out there taking risks or making yourself vulnerable, sit down and shut it.
Pursuing a purpose and walking a different path takes guts. So, if you’re facing critics or naysayers, don’t get lost in their negativity. Stay the course, even when your confidence tanks every now and then.
If you’re waiting for the “perfect” moment—waiting until you’re experienced enough, smart enough, or “good enough” to avoid criticism—you’re going to be waiting forever. The key is to start small. Take a step toward your goal or dream, even if it feels uncomfortable. It doesn’t need to involve huge risks or massive effort. You can work quietly behind the scenes, don’t let anyone know.
Make it fun! It’s not about being the best, winning awards, or being perfect. It’s about taking that first brave step and celebrating it. Do it again and again until you realize you’ve been facing your fears and moving closer to what you’re meant to do—whether or not you know what that is yet.
I’m not there yet, either. But I can tell you this: it’s one heck of a ride.
Take a chance, entertain that idea, and remember: you are brave enough!
