Stop Waiting for Permission
I’ve always written. But for the longest time, I didn’t call myself a writer.
It felt like a title someone else had to bestow on me—like I needed some external validation to qualify for the label. Even though I’d done freelance work and people were willing to pay me to craft words, I still felt like I hadn’t arrived. Surely there was some elusive, official milestone I hadn’t reached yet.
Except here’s the truth: no one comes along to officially declare you a writer. Or a filmmaker. Or a designer. Or whatever it is you’re passionate about. At some point, you have to decide for yourself.
One day, I did just that. I ordered business cards and, right under my name, I printed one word:
Writer.
That was it. I stopped waiting for permission that was never going to come. I realized something that has stuck with me ever since: often, it’s in the doing that we come to be.
No One Is Coming to Give You Permission
No one is going to tap you on the shoulder and say, “Congratulations, you’re now officially a writer. Or a web designer. Or a photographer.” But that doesn’t mean you aren’t one.
At some point, you have to stop waiting for permission. You have to decide.
You have to decide that you’re serious about this.
You have to decide whether you honestly believe you have the talent and the commitment to thrive in it.
You have to decide that what’s in your heart, hands, and head can make a positive contribution to the world.
And then, you have to start. You have to run with it.
It’s About Doing the Work
Let me be clear: deciding doesn’t mean you instantly arrive at mastery. Just because you’ve decided doesn’t mean your work is on the same level as someone who’s been honing their craft for decades. But it does mean there’s nothing stopping you from walking the same path of learning, practicing, and growing until it is.
Deciding means you’re ready to put in the work. To take the next step, and the one after that. To keep moving forward, even when it’s messy, uncertain, or hard.
What Are You Waiting For?
Is there something you’re waiting for permission to pursue fully? Maybe it’s a dream, a calling, or a passion you’ve been holding back on. Here’s the truth: no one is coming to tell you you’re ready. Maybe today is the day you decide to stop waiting.
Because the world doesn’t need more people waiting for permission.
The world needs more people brave enough to decide.