I had a conversation this week that made my stomach flip.
It was with someone I consider incredibly successful. They’ve built multiple companies and have the kind of career I admire. During a scheduled conversation, they asked if they could schedule a follow-up so they could learn more about me. And I said yes.
I could’ve overthought it. Could’ve convinced myself I wasn’t ready, that I had nothing interesting to say, that I should wait until I had more experience or a better elevator pitch or… whatever excuse my brain wanted to come up with. But I didn’t.
I said yes because I can tell I’m on the brink of something that feels big. It’s that electric, nerve-wracking, exciting feeling that comes when you’re about to step into something new. And even though I don’t know exactly where our conversation is going yet, I know it will help.
Maybe it’s me leaning into my “defying gravity” era (yes, that’s a Wicked reference, and yes, I’m owning it). Or maybe it’s just year three of my business, and I’m finally ready to take the lead on my own leadership.
Either way, I’m having that conversation scared. I’m saying yes to what feels right. And I’m shooting my shot.
If you’ve been sitting on something—a dream, a conversation, an opportunity, a goal—this is your sign to do the same. Keep reading if that sounds like you.
What “Shoot Your Shot” Actually Means
Shoot your shot doesn’t just mean sliding into someone’s DMs (though hey, sometimes that works). It means going after what you want, even when it’s uncomfortable. Even when you’re not 100% sure it’ll work out.
It means:
- Sending the email
- Making the ask
- Starting the conversation
- Applying for the thing
- Saying yes when opportunity knocks
- Putting yourself out there, even when your brain is screaming at you to play it safe
Here’s the thing—this applies to everything. Business, relationships, life, and personal growth. If you want something, you have to go for it. Nobody’s going to hand it to you, and certainly nobody’s going to do it for you.
The Truth About Playing It Safe
Playing it safe feels comfortable. It’s not scary and feels reasonable. Like the smart, responsible thing to do.
But you know what is scary? Dying with regret.
I don’t know about you, but I do not want to be on my deathbed wondering what would’ve happened if I’d just said yes. Wondering what would have happened if I tried the thing, asked the question, or shown up for the event.
When I get to the end of my life, I do not want to think, “I wonder what would’ve happened if I’d just been brave enough to try.”
If you’re reading this post, it’s most likely because you don’t either. And if you’re saying, “Okay, but how?”—Keep reading, I’ve got you.
3 Ways to Start Shooting Your Shot (Even If You’re Scared)
Here are three things you can do right now to start going after what you want.
1. Stop Waiting to Be Ready (You Never Will Be)
Here’s a secret: You’ll never feel 100% ready. There will always be one more thing you think you need before you take the leap.
More experience. More time. More confidence. More proof that it’ll work out.
But readiness is a myth. The people who are out there living their dreams? They didn’t wait until they felt ready. They just started doing the thing. Inside, they were scared as hell, but they figured it out along the way.
Your challenge: Identify one thing you’ve been waiting to feel “ready” for. Then ask yourself—what would happen if I just started now? What’s one small step I could take today, even if I don’t feel ready?
2. Make the Ask (The Worst They Can Say is No)
This is the one that gets most of us stuck. We don’t ask because we’re afraid of hearing no.
But if you don’t ask, the answer is already no. So what do you really have to lose?
Want to have a conversation with someone you admire? Ask. Want to pitch your idea? Ask. Want the job, the opportunity, the collaboration, the date? Ask.
The worst thing that happens is they say no. And if they say no? You’re exactly where you were before you asked. But if they say yes? Everything changes.
Your challenge: Think of one thing you want but haven’t asked for. Send the message. Make the call. Have the conversation. This week!
3. Say Yes Before You Talk Yourself Out of It
This is what I did. When the opportunity came up to have that follow-up conversation, I didn’t give myself time to spiral. I just said yes.
Because here’s what happens when you overthink: Your brain comes up with 47 reasons why you shouldn’t do the thing. Why it won’t work. Why you’re not qualified. Why it’s not the right time.
But if you say yes first, you give yourself permission to figure it out later. You commit before the fear has a chance to talk you out of it.
Your challenge: The next time an opportunity comes your way—even if it makes you nervous—say yes first. You can figure out the details later.
This is Your Defying Gravity Era
Maybe you’re in year three of your business and ready to step into your leadership. Maybe you’re tired of playing small. Maybe you’re just ready to stop wondering “what if” and start finding out.
Whatever it is—this is your moment.
You don’t have to have it all figured out or feel confident. You just have to be willing to try.
So shoot your shot. Send the email. Make the ask. Say yes. Take the leap.
Because the life you’re dreaming of? It’s not going to come to you magically. You have to go get it.
And remember, while it will be scary, looking back and wishing you had is scarier.
So What Are You Waiting For?
What’s the thing you’ve been sitting on? The conversation you’ve been avoiding? The dream you’ve been putting off?
Whatever it is—go for it. This week. Today. Right now.
Shoot your shot. The magic happens when you do.
What’s one thing you’re going to go for this week? I’d love to hear it—drop a comment!
