When I speak about my career journey and the steps I’ve taken to get to where I am, there are five fundamental rules that I live by. These principles didn’t appear overnight – experience, lessons, failures, and achievements shaped them. Each one guides me toward a life of courage and growth.
Below I share the five rules and the pivotal shift that changed my perspective on everything.
1. If you don’t take a chance on yourself, no one else will
The first rule is simple but powerful: believe in yourself enough to take a chance. We often wait for validation or permission from others to pursue our dreams. But the truth is, no one will ever be as invested in your growth and success as you are. Taking a chance on yourself doesn’t guarantee success, but it does guarantee momentum.
When you step forward with confidence, doors begin to open. Trust me, the opportunities waiting on the other side of fear are worth the risk.
Takeaway: Start betting on yourself, even if no one else does. Especially if no one else does.
2. Never fear taking bold actions despite what others may say
Courage is at the centre of every great decision. Bold actions may attract criticism; some might even call you hasty or silly. But living a bold life isn’t about pleasing others; it’s about staying true to your vision.
Every groundbreaking idea, invention, or movement was born out of boldness. The world is full of naysayers, but it’s also full of dreamers who ignored the noise and took a leap of faith. When you’re standing at the crossroads of comfort and courage, choose courage.
Takeaway: Don’t let fear of judgment dictate your actions. Boldness invites growth.
3. You won’t know if you don’t try
We often stop ourselves before we even start. Whether it’s fear of failure, rejection, or the unknown, the temptation to stay within the bounds of what feels safe is real. But the truth is, you can’t succeed if you don’t try.
I’ve learned that failure is rarely as catastrophic as we imagine it to be. More often, failure becomes a stepping stone to success. It teaches, sharpens, and strengthens us. And even if you try and fail, you’ll always gain a valuable lesson, a story, or a new perspective.
Takeaway: Action is the antidote to uncertainty. Take the first step and see what unfolds.
4. You’re allowed to change your mind
One of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves is permission to evolve. It is not fickle, weak, or indecisive to change our minds. Life has a way of teaching you that growth often requires letting go of what no longer serves you.
It’s okay to outgrow dreams, shift your priorities, or rethink your path. Change is not betrayal, it’s progress. Be open to the possibility that your “truth” today may not be your truth tomorrow, and that’s perfectly fine.
Takeaway: Growth means changing. Embrace it.
5. There’s no such thing as perfection
Perfection is an illusion. It’s a mirage we chase, thinking it will bring us fulfilment, only to find that it moves further away the closer we get. For years, I held myself to impossible standards, believing that perfection was the ultimate goal. It wasn’t.
True fulfilment comes from progress, not perfection. It’s found in showing up every day, doing your best, and learning along the way. When you release the need to be perfect, you create space for authenticity, creativity, and joy.
Takeaway: Strive for progress, not perfection. Life is imperfect, and so are you.
The most significant shift: Acceptance
Out of all the lessons I’ve learned, the most profound shift came when I finally understood that I would not be everyone’s cup of tea and that not everyone would like me. Letting go of the need for universal approval was liberating. It freed me to live unapologetically, to take risks, and to prioritise my happiness over others’ expectations and opinions.
The day you accept that not everyone will like you, everything changes. Stop seeking validation from people who don’t matter and start focusing on validating yourself.
Takeaway: If you were everyone’s cup of tea, you’d be a mug.
What’s the one rule you live by?
These five rules have been my guide, but I know everyone has their own set of principles. What keeps you grounded? What helps you stay true to yourself? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Remember, the rules we live by shape the lives we lead. Choose wisely, live boldly, and never stop growing.
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PS. If you enjoyed this post, check out Boost Your Confidence in Just 30 Days.
