Because we’re diving straight into something so fundamental, it’s criminal how often it’s overlooked—showing up in life. That’s right, simply being present, whether it’s in your business, at the gym, in your relationships, or at networking events. Sounds basic, but you’d be shocked at how often this principle gets thrown out the window.
Take me, for example. I once had a golden opportunity to attend a networking event filled with some of the biggest names in the tech industry. I prepared for weeks, honed my elevator pitch, and even got a new suit. But on the day of the event, I didn’t show up. My excuse? I convinced myself I wasn’t ready, that I needed just one more day to polish my pitch. Let me tell you, not showing up was the worst pitch I ever made.
And here’s the kicker—most of us are not showing up in one way or another. We tell ourselves we’ll start that new diet “next Monday,” we’ll talk to that potential business partner “once we’ve got a better grasp on the project,” or we’ll start working out “when we’re less busy.” We find a million excuses not to be present, thinking we’ll get a better shot later.
What are you waiting for? You think that perfect moment’s going to come around like a bus on a schedule? Hell no! The moment is now. Showing up isn’t half the battle; it’s the entire damn war.
If you think your business is going to boom just because you’ve got a perfect plan, you’re dead wrong. Business is about interaction, connection, and yes, showing the hell up. The same applies to the gym. Nobody got ripped by reading about workouts. You need to be there, sweating and grinding.
Relationships? Don’t get me started. Love doesn’t grow in the vacuum of text messages and “maybe laters.” It blossoms in the presence of, well, presence. You gotta be there, in the good and the bad, to make it work.
So, cut the crap and start showing up—fully, unapologetically, audaciously. Life’s too damn short for you to be an extra in your own story. Make the decision to be present, come what may. And watch how things change when you do.