I get at least an email a day from readers asking for my advice.
Sometimes it’s about what they should cook for dinner. Other times it’s about how they should decorate the party. But more often than not these emails are really just asking for permission.
It’s questions like: I want to write a book but I don’t think anyone will read it. What should I do? Or, I’ve always dreamed of starting my own blog but I’m not sure what my friends and family will think. What should I do? Or, I’m pretty sure I’d be really good at fill-in-the-blank but I’m afraid to try. Would should I do?
The thing is, I’m willing to bet that not one of these people doesn’t know what to do. I’m willing to bet that they know exactly what to do but they’re afraid to want it. I’m darn near positive that what they actually want from me isn’t advice, they want me to tell them that their dreams are allowed.
Guys, get on over here and let me tell you a little secret. The greatest thing about dreams is that nobody gets to tell you how big yours can be! The wonderful thing about them is that they’re yours to design, imagine, and keep. If you want to fly a jet, go to cooking school, build a website, build a house– guess what? You’re allowed to want those things! So long as your dreams don’t harm anyone else, you should absolutely chase after them with all you’ve got!
You don’t need me or anyone else to tell you your dreams are ok. You don’t need me or anyone else to to give you permission to shine. You’re allowed to glow, in fact, I think you’re required to. I think each of us are gifted with a special something by our creator and we honor that by putting it out into the world. I know sometimes that seems scary. Sometimes we worry that if we try something new or use our God given talents that others will think we’re showing off. But you know what? Someone else’s glow doesn’t diminish those around them, it lights them up with radiance. It inspires them to try. It makes them want to shine in their own special way. When you shine you give others permission to do the same. So please stop hiding in the shadows friends. Please stop snuffing out your light. You want my permission? You’ve got it, no email necessary, no explanation required. Get out there right this second and light yourself up for all the world to see. xo, RH
Worried about what other people will think as you pursue your dreams? Check out this post.
