January marks five years since I took the leap from my last corporate job.

“The leap” will teach you everything you need to know about yourself — professionally, as well as personally. It lands you in a high-stakes wilderness that holds up a mirror; one where you see, in full view, that all which you attract is a reflection of how you currently view yourself.

“The leap” requires boldness. The boldness to communicate a truth that only you can see. The boldness to say yes to possibility and accept any associated risk. The boldness to say no to fear — or, for that matter, anything or anyone that pulls you in a direction incongruous with the one you’ve chosen in this season.

(And, if you’re a recovering people pleaser like me, that last part will be the hardest — and the most essential — hurdle to clear.)

You take “the leap” when you know what is inside you. You may have trouble articulating or putting it into practice at first. Regardless, you’re going to have to learn sometime, and so, you’ve chosen now. “The leap” requires you to become the person who can bring your ideal vision to reality. That means understanding who you are right now — strengths and weaknesses alike. That means changing what needs to change — even if it’s uncomfortable for you or others.

Many will admire you. Others will lament the change, and a few of those may lurk in the shallows like crabs, waiting for an opportunity to pull you back into their bucket. This is where understanding your values is especially important.

Will you cave to the pressure and conform?

Will you revert back to your previous state?

Or, will you stand up for the version of you that so craved change, that they inspired this leap in the first place?

In the end, it’s not about being admired. It’s not about impressing anyone, and you certainly don’t need to worry about proving anything. You took this leap to become who you are called to be.

That person is good. That person is worthy. That person is loved right now. That person has gifts and wisdom to share through the lens of a unique life.

Your reward for sharing, should you keep going, is the opportunity to live so authentically that your impact — your ability to leave this world better than you found it — cannot be denied.

You know what’s inside of you — the ability to create a life so memorable that it serves as a blueprint to others trying to get in touch with what’s inside of them.

You have a purpose to serve. You have a voice — and many people have kept theirs muted, for fear of judgment or being ostracized.

You have a vision. Don’t let the noise distract you. Lock in, let ’em talk, and stay on the path.

Appreciate the love, as it is a beautiful reflection of the love you have to give. Always look to reciprocate kindness, support, and care.

Take any opportunity you can to make somebody’s day. Discover how your purpose can help someone else walk in theirs.

Don’t ever stop working on your vision — or yourself.

You’re a leader in the way you dig in and do the work. You’re not afraid of making a mess — because sometimes, it’s the first step toward finally clearing the clutter.

Messes are problems that force us to find solutions. They teach us how to show up better and with more direct intention. They show us which actions and relationships to repeat, as well as which to avoid. They teach us the right way, by inviting us to detour through the wrong.

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Personally, I’m glad I’ve made it this far past “the leap.” I wasn’t always sure I would. I’ve let fear pull me from purpose on occasion, and in especially lean times, I almost retreated entirely, in favor of good ol’ corporate sTaBiLiTy. 

And, just when I thought I was done, I couldn’t rip myself away from this mission: to give a platform to those daring enough to create. Those still standing — no matter what has happened.

Same as it’s been since 2013, and as it will be in 2025, 2026, and beyond.

What change will you create next?

Take the leap.