Why Not You? It’s Time to Quit Holding Back

As I looked forward to graduating with my doctorate from Drexel University in the Spring of 2021, an email popped up in my inbox. The Drexel School of Education was looking for a speaker for the event and was inviting applications from soon-to-be graduates. I instinctively deleted the email, not thinking twice about it. After all, I would show up, there would be a speaker and who was I to be the speaker at such a significant event?

About 24 hours later, something strange happened. That email—long gone into my deleted folder—popped into my head again. I couldn’t shake the thought. So, I went to my computer and retrieved it from my trash folder and stared at it some more. I began thinking about all the speakers I had heard over the years, and something inside of me whispered, “Why not you?”

So, I went for it. I filled out the application, reached out to references, wrote the required essays, and felt excited about the opportunity. I began envisioning what I would say, how I would feel standing on that stage, sharing with fellow graduates and their families. I had never done anything like this and waited anxiously to hear back. Finally, the email arrived. With my heart racing, I opened it, and there it was: I had not been selected. My initial thought was, “Why did I waste my time going through that process?”

Of course, I was disappointed. But something transformative happened during that process. The three words, “Why not me?” took root in my mind. They didn’t just apply to this one opportunity—they applied to everything. I had read hundreds of articles—why not write one? I had listened to countless speakers—why not share my own story? I had attended conferences year after year—why not present? This wasn’t just about one chance; it was about a shift in my mindset. It was about stepping outside of my comfort zone and taking a chance. And today, I’m here to encourage you to do the same.

Why Not You?

You’ve probably had a similar experience. There’s something on your mind—an opportunity, a dream, a goal—but you’ve held back. You’re waiting for the right time, or maybe you’ve convinced yourself that someone else is more qualified. That’s what I did. The first time that email came through, I immediately dismissed the idea that I could be the person standing on that stage. But the truth is, those moments of hesitation and doubt are where growth happens. When you step into something new, something uncertain, you open yourself up to possibilities you never imagined. And quit waiting for the perfect time…there is no perfect time. 

So, let me ask you: Why not you?

Stepping Outside of Your Comfort Zone

Most of us live in our comfort zone—doing things we know we’re good at, staying in spaces where we feel safe. But the magic happens when you step outside of that comfort zone. When you take a chance on something new, you grow, learn, and develop in ways you never thought possible.

Here are some actionable steps to help you step outside of your comfort zone and take a chance:

1. Start Small, But Start Somewhere
   It doesn’t have to be a massive leap; it can be a small step. In her book, Dreaming small: The Transformative Power of a Humble Life, Liz Bohannon (2023) encourages people to dream small and step into their purpose one small step at a time. Whether it’s writing your first article, speaking up in a meeting, or filling out that conference proposal, the key is to start. Commit to doing one thing this week that pushes you beyond your usual boundaries. It could be as simple as sharing your ideas with a colleague or sending that email you’ve been putting off.

2. Embrace the Power of 'Yet'
   Maybe you’re telling yourself, “I’m not good at public speaking,” or “I’m not ready to write a book.” Add the word 'yet' to the end of those sentences. “I’m not good at public speaking—yet.” “I’m not ready to write a book—yet.” This simple shift in language reminds you that growth is possible. You’re not there yet, but you’re on your way. Don’t let what you’re not stop you from becoming who you can be.

3. Get Comfortable with Rejection
   Here’s the truth: You might not get what you want the first time. I didn’t get selected as the graduation speaker, but that rejection didn’t stop me. In fact, it propelled me forward. Rejection is part of the process. It’s not a reflection of your worth or your potential—it’s just one step in the journey. So, get comfortable with hearing “no” because it’s often the first step toward hearing “yes.”

4. Surround Yourself with Encouragers
   You need people in your life who believe in you and will cheer you on when you take risks. Find those people, whether they are mentors, colleagues, friends, or family, and share your goals with them. Let them hold you accountable and remind you of your potential when you start to doubt yourself.

5. Take Imperfect Action
   Perfectionism can be paralyzing. It’s easy to think, “I’ll apply when I’m more prepared,” or “I’ll submit my work when it’s perfect.” But the reality is, you’re never going to feel fully prepared, and your work is never going to be perfect. Take imperfect action. In his book, Hidden Potential, Adam Grant (2023) encourages readers to step into the ring before they’re ready. Start before you’re ready, and adjust along the way. The more you do, the more you’ll grow.

Why You?

There’s something unique about you—something only you can offer. You have a story, a gift, and an experience that others need to hear. Your voice matters. Your perspective is valuable. But the world will never know what you have to offer if you stay hidden behind doubt and hesitation. It’s time to step forward, to take a chance on yourself.

So, what’s been on your mind lately? Is there a dream you’ve been sitting on? An opportunity you’ve been hesitating to pursue? Maybe it’s writing that first chapter of your book, submitting a proposal to present at a conference, or sharing your ideas with a broader audience.

Let me encourage you today: Stop holding back. Start writing every day, even if it’s just a few lines. Fill out that conference proposal form, even if you don’t feel qualified. Experiment with writing an article and submit it. Is there a job opportunity you’ve been thinking about? Go for it. Are you thinking about going back to school? Do it. You might be surprised by what happens when you step outside of your comfort zone and give yourself permission to try.

Conclusion

As I reflect on my own journey, I’m reminded that growth often comes from taking a chance, even when we’re unsure of the outcome. Stepping outside of my comfort zone, applying for that speaking opportunity—even though I didn’t get it—set me on a path toward new opportunities I never imagined. And the same can happen for you.

So, let me ask you this today…that thing that’s been tugging at your heart? Why not you?

Works Cited:

Bohannon, L. (2023). Dreaming small: The transformative power of a humble life. Thomas Nelson.

Grant, A. (2023). Hidden potential: The science of achieving your goals. Viking.