Everyone is talking about being brave. Have you heard the buzz? I want to be brave too. I want to live bold and adventurously and make a difference. But what about the small brave we need to embrace daily? That small scary step of being who we were created to be and not trying to replicate others.
A few years ago, I read the book You Are the Message by Roger Ailes. You’ll love the subtitle – getting what you want by being who you are! You really must read the book – it is that good. It was a timely message for me as I was struggling to figure out this crazy life — purpose, calling, and direction.
The message blew me away as it repeatedly reminded me that I have an advantage that no one does and that is that I’m me. No one can be me. No one has my voice, style, experiences, nor message. And no one has yours either!
No one can be you.
It’s like every morning when you awake you take the big stage. The stage called life. You have a message to give. As you step up on the platform everyone watches and notices your walk, and mannerisms, while they await to hear your voice. The voice that you don’t like – they need to hear. That smile that you can’t stand brings comfort to them.
Today is your stage.
Go into it unafraid knowing you have something so special to give — yourself. So, how will you present yourself? With confidence or with awkward shyness?
Will you be bold and use the platform life has given you to give your message? Or will you hold it in fearing some don’t want to hear the voice building up inside of you?
Be your own you.
Don’t spend your time comparing yourself to others or fretting over why you are different. It’s not about fearing those who might hear what you have to say, but rather embracing the stage with grace and boldness to present the message that only you can. Only you can be brave by being yourself and knowing different is awesome. Only you can be brave and embrace:
Your style.
Your reflection.
Your experience.
Your message.
Can you see your life’s platform? Hold your head high and step up today with confidence. You own this place — no one else can. Be brave.
Choose to be different and be yourself.
Will you step up and share yourself with others?
Because, you are the message.