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Why You Need to Pick Yourself

May 6, 2013 4 Comments

 

Photo by Meer - Creative Commons

Photo by Meer – Creative Commons

 I remember many times on the Elementary School playground hoping I would be found worthy to be picked by the popular kids’ team. Even as adults we often wander around looking for permission.  We may feel as though we lack the confidence and ability to bring our dreams to life.

 As an introvert (I should not let this be my confession). I often battle lack of confidence and fear to branch out. It would just be easy if someone important would pick me. However, in life that rarely happens.

A while back I read Jeff Goins’ book, You are a Writer (So Start Acting Like One).  Jeff talks about the concept of picking yourself. He said he tried for years to get published by a particular magazine. He sent in submission after submission only to be rejected each time. Feeling dejected, he changed tactics and focused on his blog and building a platform. He charged ahead with his dream no longer chasing validation from someone else.  Now magazines (including the one he wanted) are now chasing him. He chose to pick himself.

We need to quit waiting on others and pick us. I do not need someone’s permission to live out the dreams that God has called me too. (Tweet This)

I have to take responsibility and hold myself accountable for my own life. (Tweet This)

I can’t live in a perpetual state of  “what could be” or “If that famous person would give me a chance.” I need to give myself the chance and make it happen.

For my part of picking myself, I had to declare that I am a writer.

 Keep these thoughts in mind:

  •  No one will understand or be as passionate about your dreams more than you. So do not depend on the validation of others (Tweet This)
  •  For your dreams there will never be enough money, time or ability. So you might as well start now! (Tweet This)

 I love this quote from a recent post by Seth Godin:

 “The artist who struggles in obscurity, unfairly ignored because he hasn’t been picked–that’s a poignant sight. But at some point, the artist has the obligation to seek a different path, one that isn’t dependent on a system that doesn’t deserve him.”

 Quit stalling; declare that today is your day to Pick Yourself!

Your voice is important; I would love to hear from you.

 Tell me how you will pick yourself.

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About the Author:

I am enthusiastic about helping others discover their purpose and grow into a deeper relationship with Jesus. It is great to see their eyes light up at their “Ah Ha!” moment when they discover they were created for something more. My hope is that this blog will help encourage and inspire you along your way. Join the conversation and take the time to share with me your own story. I have been married to my beautiful wife Janice for over 30 years. We currently live in McDonough Georgia with our daughter. Our two boys have left the nest and we have two wonderful grand kids. Of course we cannot forget about our dog Bear.