To get started in life, give yourself permission

Since releasing my book Creativity For Sale, I’ve received amazing emails from people all over the world who are excited to start their own business or pursue an idea they’ve had for years. These emails have meant so much to me, but I’ve noticed a common theme.

Almost every email ends with a variation of the question: “What’s your advice on getting started?”

I wasn’t sure how to respond to the first couple people who emailed me asking this question. After writing some lengthy and some short responses, I realized what the majority of these folks (and maybe you reading this) are looking for…

Permission. 

You see, we’ve been taught our entire lives that we need to ask permission to do things. Whether that’s permission to go outside and play with our friends. Permission to leave a classroom to use the restroom. Permission from a guidance counselor to take a certain class. Permission from a boss to do marketing tests. Permission from our significant other to spend money on something. There are a million things in our life we ask for permission for.

Well right now I want you to give yourself permission.

If you’re thinking about starting a new business, project, writing a book, etc, you don’t need to ask anyone for permission to do it. I challenge you to stand in front of a mirror, ask yourself for permission to start your thing, then respond and give yourself that permission. I know it sounds silly, but I bet you’ll feel an overwhelming sense of approval and inspiration to get started.

I’d also like to thank Nike for creating one of the best tag lines of all time: Just do it.

I 100% understand that I’m wired differently than most people. I rarely ask for permission (sometimes to a fault). But not worrying about asking for permission has helped me create a path for myself that would never have existed. I’ve been able to work with some fantastic people and brands because I told myself I was good enough to do so. I’ve been able to make a great living and define my own freedoms because I’ve given myself permission.

Whatever the thing is you’re waiting to get permission for, don’t wait any longer. Give yourself permission and get started.

Bonus: One resource I’ve also been pointing a bunch of folks to is Eric Reis’ book “The Lean Startup.” It’s not a sexy book, but it’s been hugely helpful in changing the way I think about any business idea. It gets the Jason SurfrApp stamp of approval!