Finding your voice — whether through writing, speaking, or even singing — can feel awkward, maybe even impossible. I get it. It didn’t come naturally to me either.

But here’s the thing…

Walking, talking, and eating weren’t natural at one point either. We learned them the way we learn anything worth doing — by trying, stumbling, and figuring it out along the journey.

The same is true for the skills we admire in others. Writing a story, speaking to an audience, or even leading a song in church might seem out of reach, but they’re not. When we focus, refine our message, and share our story, we unlock the potential to inspire and create a lasting impact.

For me, it started with small steps…

I can’t sing, but I occasionally sing in the shower like I’m performing for a sold-out crowd. I have even led music for our church congregation — off-key and smiling — with dreams of replicating Mr. Kruger’s dream with the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square.

I can’t dance, but I’ve danced on stage with Bubbles the Clown at the Odyssey Dance Theatre’s production of Thriller. And sometimes in parking lots all alone.

Public speaking? That used to terrify me. Yet today, I confidently use my voice to speak and train for small and large groups, on stages both virtual and live. I am officially a professional speaker as part of the National Speakers Association. Though it’s taken a lot of dedicated time, intentional and consistent effort, and a continual big dose of courage.

Writing? That was a mountain I thought I’d never climb. Now, I write every day — blogs, essays, poetry, workbooks, and whitepapers. I’m also working (slowly) on my first actual book expanding on the Intentional Leadership framework. Somewhere along the way, I started calling myself a writer and a storyteller.

I once thought poetry wasn’t for me. But then I started exploring this style of sharing my voice. And I kept going. But I struggled to call myself a poet, even after writing over 200 pieces of poetry. While I still wonder at times as I continue to learn, and continue to write (over 400 poems now), I have finally embraced calling myself a poet.

Here’s what I’ve learned…

You don’t have to be a natural. You just have to begin. And then keep going.

So if something feels unnatural or out of reach, lean in any way. Be the intentional leader you know you can be.

Take the first step.
Start messy.
Grow boldly.

Because the truth is, we don’t have to be a natural to do great things. We just have to show up.

And speaking of poetry… 

NOT A NATURAL
By Les Patterson

We once were not a natural at walking
Nor eating, drinking, or talking
Yet each day we do those things
Sometimes we may even sing.

The gift of life allows us to grow
Majestic rising from the seeds we sow
Life is rich each day through
If we but rise and get up and do.

Live each day with this profound thought
Life is much more than what is bought
And learning is more than just an art
All we have to do is follow our heart.

INTENTIONAL LEADERSHIP 13 MINUTE ACTION

Take 13 minutes today to step out of your natural comfort zone and start creating your greatness.

❤️❤️❤️

I love you, friend!

Have a great Monday! Thanks for letting me share.

Les

RED EDGE MENTORING – VISION | STRATEGY | PROMISE

EMPOWERING LEADERS TO CREATE AND LIVE A MORE INTENTIONAL LIFE

Click here to schedule a complimentary Intentional Leadership Discovery Call