That requires confidence doesn’t it? To raise your hand and say “I can,” “I want to,” “I will” is risky business. You just might fail and how embarrassing would that be. Think
about all those times when inspiration or a great idea struck or a commitment was requested of you and you almost said yes. What stopped you from following through?
Perhaps you considered the other obligations and commitments you have and recognized that your plate is too full for the new undertaking. You kept your hand down and refrained from saying “yes.” That’s a smart move for all involved. Over-commitment leads to disappointment for everyone.
But look at your plate and the commitments on it. Are you committed to things that are moving you forward or have you said “yes” to things that were “shoulds?” Are you avoiding growing and changing by keeping the comfortable or obligated items on your plate, so much so that there is no bandwidth for the new challenges?
Or are you waiting to be picked? Are you waiting for your boss to say “Yes, I see you and all your talent and we want you to step in to this new bigger role?” Are you waiting for clients to come calling, recognizing your authenticity and unique way of doing business as just the right fit for them?
Those phrases sound rather ridiculous don’t they? Yet many of us, myself included, have been sidelined, waiting to be picked, never realizing that picking ourselves is an option.
Not sure what it means to pick yourself? Get a copy of Seth Godin’s book What to Do When It’s Your Turn