“All glory comes from daring to begin.” – Eugene Ware
The start of a new year or the beginning of anything new, brings excitement, fear, doubt, and many other emotions. We all know it is often easier to just stay with what is comfortable, stay right where we are, and risk nothing.
But, we also know deep inside that there is more to be experienced, more growth to be had, and more that is awaiting us on the road ahead in our lives and work. We must dare to begin.
I’m often asked to speak about 21st Century Leadership and seven key attributes for success in a fast-changing world. One of the characteristics that we discuss is the idea of being a leadership Daredevil. You see, a leadership Daredevil is not meant to be like the iconic stunt master, Evel Knievel, who holds the Guinness Book of World Records distinction as the person with “the most broken bones in a lifetime” at 433. Evel Knievel was a tremendous character and certainly a daring entertainer, but I’m inviting us to consider the term Daredevil slightly differently.
A leadership Daredevil is not reckless with their pursuits, words, or actions, but is absolutely courageous. With purpose, intention, and courage, they bring ideas into action to improve a greater mission or purpose. They dare to move things forward. They challenge the status quo. They bring talk into positive action that leads positive change. They move beyond what is comfortable and into pursuits that lead to positive solutions.
This may seem heroic, but it truly is not meant to be that way. In fact, we all have the ability to be leadership Daredevils every single day in big, but mostly, small ways. We all make choices every day about what we’re willing to dare to begin. We choose to cling to what we know, what is comfortable, or what we’ve always done. Yet, what is awaiting us is an opportunity to experience more.
What is waiting for you to dare to begin in your job or with your team at work?
What is waiting for you to dare to begin with your spouse or significant relationships in your life?
What is waiting for you to dare to begin with that dream you’ve always wanted to try?
As you begin this new year or start that new phase in your life, I wish you luck in carrying this kind of courageous leadership with you. I hope you’re able to dare to begin and awaken the leadership Daredevil within you. Trust me, not only can your life and work experience new energy and progress, but the relationships in your life and work will thank you later.
Good luck on the next leg of your journey! Dare to begin.
Travel Gracefully,
Jason
Jason Barger is a globally celebrated author, keynote speaker, and leadership consultant. More importantly, he’s striving to be an above average father, husband, and friend.
Follow on Twitter @JasonVBarger and learn more at JasonVBarger.com
PS. If you liked this blog post, you may also like these!
7 Leadership Skills The World Needs