Stop Letting Perfection Hold You Back

Chicago—I had recently arrived to deliver a keynote presentation. 

In an auditorium, that would soon be filled with leaders looking to be inspired.

I found myself sitting at the edge of the stage when the AV tech approached me to run sound check.

I went with the typical—“Mic check…one, two...”

“Ok, I want you to give me some variety in your voice”—He says, as he’s adjusting my levels on his iPad—“Share with me why you enjoy speaking...”

Pausing for a brief moment to gather my thoughts…

“That’s a great question…I enjoy speaking because I can use my voice to create an empowering experience for others. I can use my story to share wisdom and insights that will help individuals improve as leaders.”

He closes the cover to the iPad case—“Ok, your levels are good!—I think what you’re doing is awesome David…Honestly, speaking is something that I’ve always admired but could never see myself doing.”

“Why not?”—I ask as I walk towards him.

“I think I have to get myself together before I do that, you know, I don’t think I have much to say”—He says with a nervous smile on his face.

I start smiling because this is a common statement I hear and I respond by saying—“Well, you don’t have to have it all together to make an impact.”

Here’s the lesson in this brief encounter that I had…

We can often often doubt how amazing and influential we are because we get stuck in our own heads.

You don’t have to be perfect to be amazing.

Inspiring others is not about being perfect. You inspire others by demonstrating how you overcome your imperfections.

This idea of perfection is holding you back from sharing your message. Telling your story. Starting something new. Leading effectively…and ultimately, stepping boldly into your purpose and impacting others.

REMEMBER: You’re not a slave to perfection…You’re a work in progress.

Embrace who you are. Own your story…and shine your light.

WAYS TO TAKE ACTION:

Identify ways you can become more intentional about making a positive impact on others this week.

• How can you lead your family at a greater level?

• How can you leverage your influence to impact your coworkers and help to improve the culture in the workplace?

• How can you lead by example and inspire your friends, your community, or those that are connected with you online?