Telling Me You're Changing the Game is Mediocre at Best [Day 15

Today is Day 15 of 30 Days to Changing Your Game. We are halfway there – well done!! Yesterday Sophfronia Scott shared her expertise on how to add writing to our change-of-game plan and today my dear friend Leesa Barnes is going to challenge us to walk our talk. Here we go!

Telling Me You’re Changing the Game is Mediocre at Best

by Leesa Barnes (@LeesaBarnes)

I’ll tell you what gets me (even though you didn’t ask).

When people have to explain why they’re “changing the game.”

I visited someone’s blog the other day and clicked on his “About Me” page. Instead of copy, there was a video. Curious, I pressed the play button and in the first 30-seconds, he explained why he was using a video to share who he is.

He said (and I quote):

“Instead of setting up the typical about me page that you see on most websites with slick marketing copy and PR slogans and stuff like that, I thought I’d record this video and tell you myself why I started this site.”

Really? You have to tell me why you’re trying to be different?

That’s not being authentic. If you have to tell me that you’re being different, it means you’re looking for permission. And if you’re looking for permission to change things around a bit, it means you’re still letting fear strangle your success.

Even I’ve been guilty of this. One of the headlines on one of my sales pages says “I work 4-hours a day and make 6 figures. Join me so I can teach you to do the same.”

Why do I need to tell someone that I can do this for them? Shouldn’t my lifestyle be enough to show that I’m doing this already?

And I recently blogged about the breakthrough I had attending a recent event. That I was going to change the world because I now know my purpose.

Yet, my declaration of change has no meaning unless I do something. As my friend Elizabeth PW says, you’ve got to live your truth. She didn’t say to “say your truth,” she said LIVE it.

So…

You shouldn’t have to tell me that you have free time. Just live it.
You shouldn’t have to tell me that you are changing the game. Just change it.
You shouldn’t have to tell me that you’ve made tons of money on the Internet and now you can take 90-days off per year. And spend it with your family. And go on exotic trips. And ride on a camel with an Osama lookalike on the hump with you. Just do it (and post the pictures on Twitter).

Stop telling me about the change you’re going to do and just get it done already.

Your Action: Take the one thing that you’ve been saying that you plan to do and just do it. Right now. No excuses. Share in the comments area below the action you took. Don’t share why you plan to do. Share what you have done.

Leesa Barnes is President of the Association of Virtual Events Managers, Organizers & Hosts and is a leading authority on using virtual events to become the #1 expert in your niche market.

Nominated as one of the Top 50 Most Influential & Powerful Women in Social Media, Leesa helps independent consultants, entrepreneurs and business owners leverage virtual events and other online tools to boost profits. To learn more about Leesa, visit www.virtualeventsuccess.com.

If you don’t want to miss out on the 30 Days to Changing Your Game, please sign up here.

This entry was posted on Monday, January 25th, 2010 at 6:15 am and is filed under 30 Days to Changing Your Game. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

Anonymous

Notes to the Tribe for Monday:

1) Today’s theme song is: Boogie Shoes by KC And The Sunshine Band: http://tinysong.com/6KWp
2) I am going to be making a MAJOR announcement about something fun today. If you are on the email list for 30 Days, watch your inbox. OR you can watch the comments because I am going to do something special for the 30 Day community. 
3) If you like a post please RT it to share it with your Twitter community. Thank you!!
4) If you are getting true value from this series, please make a small donation to 12for12k’s Haiti campaign. Scroll down on the right of this page: http://escaping-mediocrity.com.64-207-185-195.koomohost.com
5) If you have signed up to be on the email list (you get little extras from me), you MUST complete the double opt-in process to get them. Look for an email from me in your inbox or in your spam folder and click on the link inside it.
6) I have set up a Face book Group for us: http://www.facebook.com/#/group.php?gid=246014862902
7) I built a list on twitter of all the guest bloggers to make it easy for you to follow them: http://twitter.com/#/list/SarahRobinson/thirtydayguestbloggers
8) There are also two twitter lists of participants in 30 Days. You will find them here: http://twitter.com/MirkoGosch/escapingmediocrity and http://twitter.com/The_Promo_Guy/game-changing

Love,
Sarah
- Anonymous
  
  We interrupt our regularly scheduled programming for the BIG DRUMROLL!!!!!
  
  I am thrilled beyond words to announce that once the 30 Days to Changing Your Game Blog Series is over, we will Kick It Up even more with The Game Changers Roundtable: http://www.gamechangersroundtable.com. 12 of my trail-blazing, game-changing friends and I are going to sit down over “virtual coffee” and talk about the whys and hows of what they do. AND it is free. If you want mp3′s, CD’s, transcripts, etc., those are available for purchase.
  
  I haven’t announced this to the public yet because I wanted to share it with all of you. AND, because you are so awesome, if you decide you the mp3 recordings, use coupon code HOOLIGAN for $10 off. That coupon will be good until midnight tomorrow (Tuesday) night. Then I will announce it to the whole entire world.
  
  I really hope you will join us!
  - Anonymous
    
    I just signed up for Evareething :=)
Anonymous

And it happens again! When you are ready, the teacher appears! Thank you so much Leesa. I was just writing this morning (yes! back to my morning pages!) how I noticed that when I got ‘permission’ from my husband about a risky creative idea, it all seemed possible. I was thinking….WHY DO I NEED PERMISSION? You are SO RIGHT. I already am. I’m already all the things that I’m trying to say to everyone. My new blog- almost up!- is ALREADY me and WHAT IT IS. So the next time someone asks me WHAT I want to achieve in my blog I’m going to reply……JUST READ IT! Thanks a bezillion.
- http://www.soulfilledlife.com Heather Gray
  
  Congrats Megan — on blog and on getting back to morning pages! I look forward to “just reading it”
- Anonymous
  
  Megan – when I started Escaping Mediocrity, people were always asking me questions like – who is it for, who is the target market, how are you going to monetize it, blah blah blah. I was very happy saying. “I don’t know. I just love doing it.” YOU GO!
Anonymous

I resigned.
- http://twitter.com/mckra1g mckra1g
  
  Holy B.A.L.L.S.! No guts, no glory, Claudia. You have really taken today’s post to heart. FWIW, if you need a support system, feel free to contact me. Best to you, M.
- http://twitter.com/thrivecoaching Vanessa Torre
  
  I am having a Jerry Maguire sized WHOOO HOOOO moment for you right now. That just sent chills down my spine. So freaking awesome. I want to leave my job by July 1. Sadly, I don’t think it’s going to happen. But if it did, my two week notice would have to be given while I’m actually on vacation in Mexico. I have fantasies about writing “I quit” in the sand, taking a picture and emailing it. I mean, if you’re going to quit your job, why not do it in style…
  - http://www.randomshelly.com/blog/ Shelly
    
    That would be great style! and even if they were mad – they’d have to smile
- http://twitter.com/lipdesign Lori Paquette
  
  YES!!!! Way to go, Claudia!
- Anonymous
  
  Holy Moly….you REALLY stepped up to the plate and hit one right out of the park!!!! WOOO HOOOO !!
  Keep on keepin on!!!
- http://www.randomshelly.com/blog/ Shelly
  
  Those are 2 words that made me pause reading! Way to go!
- http://themarketingmark.blogspot.com MarkSherrick
  
  Now you are truly living the 30 days….holy crap. You’re definitely ROCKing your BALLS as hard as you can.
- Anonymous
  
  wow claudia. Just wow.
- Kristin
  
  Wow. You are really changing your game. Way to go, Claudia!
  - Anonymous
    
    Thank you all so much for your comments – those in my real world think I am a bit mad – maybe I am, we’ll see!!!
http://elizabethpottsweinstein.com ElizabethPW

1 – omg, I’m so honored that you took what I said to heart

2 – I love how you are so kicka** about this, and I agree. By “saying” instead of just freaking doing, we are discounting and taking power away from what we do. We don’t need to explain or tell. Just *live* your story.
Anonymous

Seeking permission to change…hummm…are we seeking permission from others or ourselves. I’m guilty of this and I’m sure there are others. So new slogan – just go do it! (don’t want to copy Nike, so it’s changed around to be unique!)
- Anonymous
  
  How ’bout: ” Its a done deal!!” or “Consider it DONE!!”
  I like your revised Nike slogan.
Anonymous

Great post and so true. You know…I see and hear those same things everywhere I go. And you’re right. Live by example. Actions speak louder than words. It really is true. Recently one thing I’ve just gone and done is stick to a workout schedule. I would say I’m going to workout, get started and then like most people, let other things get in the way and soon I’m not doing it anymore. I finally told myself no more. You are working out regularly at least 3 times a week. Every week. No excuses. And I have stuck to that. There are days when I want to let it slide but I get it done. It is also a great feeling of accomplishment. Thanks for a great post!
- http://www.randomshelly.com/blog/ Shelly
  
  Sticking to things is the hard part I think! Good job!
http://fearlesscreativity.com tobias tinker

Well that was refreshing! It’s a very good question – why spend the 15 seconds of someone’s attention that you get (if you’re lucky) for free on telling them why they should pay attention to you? Just do something worth paying attention to already! Show, don’t tell…

Derek Sivers (creator of CD Baby and indie music superhero) has written before of the danger of telling people what you’re going to do rather than doing it – he even cites statistics about it, studies which show clearly that if you broadcast your intentions you’re measurably less likely to carry them out, because an important subconscious part of your brain already feels like it’s done – and thus the impetus is less, the hunger is less – even though in real terms, nothing has actually happened yet! Don’t tell me what you’re thinking of doing – tell me when it’s done!

anyway, super post, short and sweet and packs a punch – kind of what it’s all about.
- http://www.randomshelly.com/blog/ Shelly
  
  I like that show don’t tell… I had never thought of it as “my brain already thinks its done” but I can see how that is true!
Anonymous

Thanks Leesa. After reading your post, I took a brisk winter walk. No stalling, I just did it.

What you wrote reminds me of my high school English teacher. He said, “Don’t begin your paper by stating ‘ Go to, I shall now write about . . . ‘. Just write about it!”

As someone who has enough good intentions for several lifetimes, I appreciate the kick in the pants required to turn the intentions into actions.
- http://twitter.com/MikhaelaCraig Mikhaela Craig
  
  Along those same lines, I remember my English teacher telling us not to begin a sentence with “I think…..” Whatever you write is obviously how you think! Just state it! And in this post, you are suggesting to go beyond even “stating”, and just DO it. Have the confidence to know that what you are doing is RIGHT, BELIEVE it, and move ahead FULL FORCE, without getting an “OK” first, and without looking back (but still taking time to write about your progress!).
  - http://themarketingmark.blogspot.com MarkSherrick
    
    Sentences don’t begin with I think, newspaper articles don’t begin with in this article, term papers don’t have any explanation beyond the introduction, etc. Don’t waste time, just get to it.
SarahFirestine

Inspirational way to start a Monday – THANK YOU!
http://twitter.com/beadlolabead Lola

Day 14 seamlessly blends into Day 15 for me, because the knowledge that “words have power and energy” is how I let “fear strangle [my] success.” Putting myself ~ feelings and all ~ “out there” in a written forum such as this is a HUGE step outside the box for me. You wouldn’t believe the beads of sweat that form upon my brow as I contemplate clicking that ominous “post” button! Although I’ve posted twice during this challenge, I really wanted to participate every day. So today Leesa and Sophfronia ~ I’m giving myself permission to write my way to change and I’m doing it now. [insert beads of sweat here . . .]
- http://www.jessilicious.com Jess Webb
  
  Congrats on pushing that “Publish” button, Lola!!!!!!!! It’s great to hear from you!
  - http://twitter.com/beadlolabead Lola
    
    Thank you! =D
- Anonymous
  
  YAY for YOU….congrats!! I’ll be experiencing those beads of sweat as I post my first eva blog up for all the planet to see….although, I truly don’t expect the entire planet to even know that it exists…HA!!
  - http://twitter.com/beadlolabead Lola
    
    I started a blog and made random posts every now and then for TWO YEARS before I told anyone about it! Can’t wait to see you blog! =D
- Anonymous
  
  Yay Lola!! Very often I feel like I might throw up when I am about to hit Post. Then I hit Post anyway and am glad.
http://twitter.com/mckra1g mckra1g

I opened an account with a self-publisher/POD company. Within 3 months, I will have a book available for purchase in hardbound/online form.

Whoo hoo!
- http://twitter.com/thrivecoaching Vanessa Torre
  
  ROCK ON!
  - http://twitter.com/mckra1g mckra1g
    
    Thanks, Vanessa. All I need to do is take one step at a time.
    - Anonymous
      
      Baby steps are where it’s at! What is the next indicated thing – do just that. The rest will take care of itself. SO proud!!
- Anonymous
  
  WoW…lots of ACTION happening in this community!! WOO HOO is right…Congrats!! HUGE, HUGE step!! Looking forward to reading it.
- http://www.randomshelly.com/blog/ Shelly
  
  Wow that has got to feel good! Way to go!
Anonymous

This post reminds me of this great song “A little less conversation” by Elvis. Sure, nothing gets done by simply expressing an intention to do something and I confess that too many times I have fallen short after having expressed something I was about to do.
Although I also do believe that it can be helpful to express one´s intention to trusted friends as in my case it helps me to stick with the intention and the implementation. The best way to implement any undertaking for me has always been to get moving into action immediatley after I´ve made the decision -even it was only a small step towards the goal.
Thank you, Leesa, for this action inspiring post
Mirko
- Anonymous
  
  BINGO…I knew there was a song out there that summed this post up beautifully….Elvis song!! I was kinda singing just that one phrase and couldn’t quite put my finger on the rest….and now, I’m singing it. Thanks.
- Anonymous
  
  That song has been in my head since Day #1. Love that you added it here!
Anonymous

Awesome post. I feel the same way. The truth is, most of the people who are saying that, do not really live that way. They did at one time perhaps, but they are not living it now. You never hear Stevie Wonder, Oprah or Richard Branson saying they have free time to do what they want to do. You just hear about them DOING it. It’s all posturing. I hate the phrase I am changing the game and I hate the phrase, take it to the next level. It does not mean anything. My next level and your next level are 2 different things!

Let’s get real here for once!

Also, its a big PR mistake to not have copy that anyone can use. If anyone was going to do an article on him, they have to rely on sad video. Not having good media training is backfiring on him!

Dr. Wright
Wright Place TV Show
http://www.wrightplacetv.com
http://www.wrightplacetv.com/ Dr Wright

Awesome post. I feel the same way. The truth is, most of the people who are saying that, do not really live that way. They did at one time perhaps, but they are not living it now. You never hear Stevie Wonder, Oprah or Richard Branson saying they have free time to do what they want to do. You just hear about them DOING it. It’s all posturing. I hate the phrase I am changing the game and I hate the phrase, take it to the next level. It does not mean anything. My next level and your next level are 2 different things!

Let’s get real here for once!

Also, its a big PR mistake to not have copy that anyone can use. If anyone was going to do an article on him, they have to rely on sad video. Not having good media training is backfiring on him!

Dr. Wright
Wright Place TV Show
http://www.wrightplacetv.com
http://sallyg.me Sally G.

This morning I left the house, bought breakfast and filled 2 pages of all that needs to be done by Thursday morning. I’ve assigned names to aspects I do not need to do myself. I’ve scheduled ‘group time’ for my daughters and I to accomplish certain aspects of this list together (w/ music and good humour) – and I am now shutting down my browser and email programs so I can dedicate 2 hours of focussed energy to an assignment due on Wednesday. One step at a time, I’m determined to get there …
- http://www.jessilicious.com Jess Webb
  
  Whoo hoo!! You go girl!
http://twitter.com/marksherrick Mark Sherrick

Right to the point, nice and blunt. I love it.

Talk. Is. Cheap.

Shut up and do it.

Show me what you’ve got.

I hate talking. I’d rather do instead. I hate weekly sales meetings where you talk about what you did and what you’re going to do. I like to go out and DO IT. How I told you I was gonna do it isn’t how I did it anyhow, it was what you wanted to hear.

I’m pretty sure you all know why I’m here. I don’t need to explain myself. I can, but I’d rather you figure it out. It’s worth a lot more that way.
- Anonymous
  
  Ugh, when I was in the 9-5 world, I HATED sales meetings – they were the biggest waste of time, all that blah, blah, blah about things we “wanted” to get done “somehow,” but they rarely got done. I wanted to just go back to my office and DO something.
  - http://www.randomshelly.com/blog/ Shelly
    
    Oh my favorite is having a meeting to schedule meetings… Really??
    - Anonymous
      
      Ugh, I’m having flashbacks to bad coffee, pantyhose and irrelevant status meetings…
      - http://themarketingmark.blogspot.com MarkSherrick
        
        well, two of three aint bad. But yeah, I couldn’t stand meetings that were basic ego boosts to those who cant get it anywhere else. I would almost always come in late, having been doing something, and then accidentally on purpose schedule a conference call and have to leave right after I would say something like “sold this…and this….didn’t sell this…oh, and I have a call to go to, gotta go sell something. bye”
- http://www.randomshelly.com/blog/ Shelly
  
  I’m with you on the meetings! What a waste of time most of them are – I have had some productive meeting in my career – but more of the type that you described!
  
  Great reply to read.
http://www.accessabundance.com/ Teresa Romain

Thanks for this today Leesa!

These words hit home for me more than you will ever know… “If you have to tell me that you’re being different, it means you’re looking for permission. And if you’re looking for permission to change things around a bit, it means you’re still letting fear strangle your success.”

This is my life – in a nutshell – and what has sabotaged my success – in sports back in high school and in my business still today. I have a coach who challenges me with this question all the time “Are you thinking it, talking it or walking it?” But today I got what the “talking it” has been about – it’s been about permission, acceptance, guarantees and about not actually having to change.

Now for the change you asked for. This past Saturday I gave a BRAND NEW workshop that I created from scratch based on what was authentic and real for me to teach/share and that would create value. No copying other people’s style or material. This one came from inside of me. Didn’t use any of the “safe” tools or concepts I’ve used for years that I know people “like”. Threw it all out the window and created something new. And – GET THIS – I did not explain why or that I was doing it this way in the workshop – despite the fact that several people in the room were clients who have worked with me for years and were used to my “old way”. I just did it… and I felt so free, authentic, BALLsy (to use Sandy’s acronym from the other day)… and, based on comments from the attendees, it was also WAY MORE valuable for them. Your post today had me get the “personal victory” in that workshop in addition to the “business/professional victory”. Thanks so much!
- http://virtualeventsuccess.com Leesa Barnes
  
  Wow Teresa! What an amazing breakthrough. I’m so happy that not only did you stop seeking permission, but you also decided to throw everything out the window & design your workshop your way and using your own voice. Good for you.
  - http://www.accessabundance.com/ Teresa Romain
    
    Thanks for that line Leesa… about “using my own voice”. Never thought of it that way… but that’s what it IS about, isn’t it? Ironic… I have a pretty good singing voice… but even there, I have always wanted my voice to be like someone else’s voice. So… there a lot here for me. Tx!
- http://www.randomshelly.com/blog/ Shelly
  
  Wow Teresa! that is quite an accomplishment and inspirational!
- Anonymous
  
  SO proud of you my friend!! Such courage – yay!!
  - http://www.accessabundance.com/ Teresa Romain
    
    Thank YOU my friend!!!!
http://ramartijr.com Richard Allan Marti Jr

Nice Leesa! Id add.. dont just say, “I love you.. ” Love.
- Anonymous
  
  awhhhhh….its that beautiful or what??? (((HUGS)))
http://kcarpenter.pnn.com/ QuestionKerri

For the last 3 weeks, I have tried a new recipe each week.

P.S.
Love the song today. I danced to “Boogie Shoes” in my first dance recital when I was 4 years old. YoungKerri rocked out!
- Anonymous
  
  Got video of that performance?!
http://twitter.com/cherrywoodburn Cherry Woodburn

Alright Leesa. And go Cherry. Was just vacillating again, over some new copy for my website. Thank you for this post now, today. I’m sending off the copy! Damn that feels good.
- Anonymous
  
  Awesome Cherry! You just reminded me of something Andrea Lee tells me all the time “EVERYTHING is in Beta. Everything. ” You can always change it later.
Anonymous

I did take one thing I had wanted to do for ages, and lo-and-behold, I get to do it. I let go of the fear that first I couldn’t do it, second the fear that I would be rejected and third the fear that I would be critisized for what it is I am actually going to be doing. I’m pumped so thank you for this series, I HAVE changed my game and it’s not mediocre at best, it’s EXTRAODINARY!
- Anonymous
  
  w00t Tammy!!!
Anonymous

I needed to improve my health, so I just started. I admit that I blogged that I was going to do this, to enlist some support, but then I just started. Did the things that needed to be done. There are other areas I need to work on, but baby steps, right?
- http://www.randomshelly.com/blog/ Shelly
  
  Baby steps are always good because they are steps and eventually will turn into big steps and then possibly leaps!
http://www.BoomerangPresentations.com/ Lily

Hi! I also hate it when I catch myself explaining my actions to others when no one’s even asked me why and probably isn’t interested. For me, I have to say I consistently have mixed feelings of awe and resentment when I read about how much money someone’s making on sales pages, blog posts, testimonials, etc. (Michele deKinder Smith has been writing about some new FTC regulations re use of such testimonials- have you heard anything about that?) I’ll probably feel differently when I’m making millions a year, but for now, those statements ring a little too much of “I’m making a bunch of $$ with little effort and you’re NOT!” Sure, I’d call that inauthentic.

Anyway, thanks for the reminder, and here’s to taking imperfect action and overcoming insecurities like the need to explain yourself!
- Anonymous
  
  Lily – I know MANY of the people who make statements like that, and lte me say take it all with a grain of salt. Much of what people claim simply isn’t true. And I now delete/unsubscribe from anything that makes me feel bad. Don’t want that energy anywhere near me. And yep – give yourself permission to do it badly. you will be amazed.
jen.

LOVE this post, Leesa. I love how you even give examples from your own website, simply, bravely and without beating yourself up about it!

What I’ve done, I just realized, is shown up all week. Today I didn’t even put off clicking the link until I had more time to respond, I just came here straight away. Simple enough, but I’m pretty chuffed about it!

I do think that stating what we are going to do is empowering in here, in this context and program, because it makes us accountable to ourselves and the tribe, and gives us the supportive energy of the others here. I know that my thoughts are with each person whose comments I read, and I feel them cheering me on too! It’s funny that support doesn’t need to be approval any more, which is truly a breakthrough concept for me.

What I will do, I will come back and show off about!
- http://www.randomshelly.com/blog/ Shelly
  
  Congrats on the breakthrough! I am cheering for everyone one here too! Can’t wait to see and hear about people bragging about what they accomplished (I agree in this format and forum)!
- Anonymous
  
  Oh Jen. This is EXACTLY what I hoped would happen for people in the 30 Day Challenge. Watching all of you with each other and knowing down in my heart that you all are doing this WITH each other and without much help from me at all is such a beautiful thing. Thrilled.
sarahrobinson

Notes to the Tribe for Monday:

1) Today’s theme song is: Boogie Shoes by KC And The Sunshine Band: http://tinysong.com/6KWp
2) I am going to be making a MAJOR announcement about something fun today. If you are on the email list for 30 Days, watch your inbox. OR you can watch the comments because I am going to do something special for the 30 Day community. 
3) If you like a post please RT it to share it with your Twitter community. Thank you!!
4) If you are getting true value from this series, please make a small donation to 12for12k’s Haiti campaign. Scroll down on the right of this page: http://escaping-mediocrity.com.64-207-185-195.koomohost.com
5) If you have signed up to be on the email list (you get little extras from me), you MUST complete the double opt-in process to get them. Look for an email from me in your inbox or in your spam folder and click on the link inside it.
6) I have set up a Face book Group for us: http://www.facebook.com/#/group.php?gid=2460148…
7) I built a list on twitter of all the guest bloggers to make it easy for you to follow them: http://twitter.com/#/list/SarahRobinson/thirtyd…
8) There are also two twitter lists of participants in 30 Days. You will find them here: http://twitter.com/MirkoGosch/escapingmediocrity and http://twitter.com/The_Promo_Guy/game-changing

Love,
Sarah
meganmatthieson

And it happens again! When you are ready, the teacher appears! Thank you so much Leesa. I was just writing this morning (yes! back to my morning pages!) how I noticed that when I got 'permission' from my husband about a risky creative idea, it all seemed possible. I was thinking….WHY DO I NEED PERMISSION? You are SO RIGHT. I already am. I'm already all the things that I'm trying to say to everyone. My new blog- almost up!- is ALREADY me and WHAT IT IS. So the next time someone asks me WHAT I want to achieve in my blog I'm going to reply……JUST READ IT! Thanks a bezillion.
claudiaq

I resigned.
http://elizabethpottsweinstein.com ElizabethPW

1 – omg, I'm so honored that you took what I said to heart

2 – I love how you are so kicka** about this, and I agree. By “saying” instead of just freaking doing, we are discounting and taking power away from what we do. We don't need to explain or tell. Just *live* your story.
michelesfakianos

Seeking permission to change…hummm…are we seeking permission from others or ourselves. I'm guilty of this and I'm sure there are others. So new slogan – just go do it! (don't want to copy Nike, so it's changed around to be unique!)
StephanieCorum

Great post and so true. You know…I see and hear those same things everywhere I go. And you're right. Live by example. Actions speak louder than words. It really is true. Recently one thing I've just gone and done is stick to a workout schedule. I would say I'm going to workout, get started and then like most people, let other things get in the way and soon I'm not doing it anymore. I finally told myself no more. You are working out regularly at least 3 times a week. Every week. No excuses. And I have stuck to that. There are days when I want to let it slide but I get it done. It is also a great feeling of accomplishment. Thanks for a great post!
http://symetrk.com/ symetrk

Well that was refreshing! It's a very good question – why spend the 15 seconds of someone's attention that you get (if you're lucky) for free on telling them why they should pay attention to you? Just do something worth paying attention to already! Show, don't tell…

Derek Sivers (creator of CD Baby and indie music superhero) has written before of the danger of telling people what you're going to do rather than doing it – he even cites statistics about it, studies which show clearly that if you broadcast your intentions you're measurably less likely to carry them out, because an important subconscious part of your brain already feels like it's done – and thus the impetus is less, the hunger is less – even though in real terms, nothing has actually happened yet! Don't tell me what you're thinking of doing – tell me when it's done!

anyway, super post, short and sweet and packs a punch – kind of what it's all about.
Anonymous

I am a big proponent of the old saying “Actions speak louder than words.” I have found that being around people that just sit there and talk about what they want to do and never act on it destroys my faith in them. I am just like”Just do it already will ya?”
- http://www.randomshelly.com/blog/ Shelly
  
  I actually just read something like that in a book about raising children… if they see you doing things – they will too – if all they see is you sitting around talking about things and you try to get them to do them… they won’t!
islandgusto

Thanks Leesa. After reading your post, I took a brisk winter walk. No stalling, I just did it.

What you wrote reminds me of my high school English teacher. He said, “Don't begin your paper by stating ' Go to, I shall now write about . . . '. Just write about it!”

As someone who has enough good intentions for several lifetimes, I appreciate the kick in the pants required to turn the intentions into actions.
SarahFirestine

Inspirational way to start a Monday – THANK YOU!
http://twitter.com/beadlolabead Lola

Day 14 seamlessly blends into Day 15 for me, because the knowledge that “words have power and energy” is how I let “fear strangle [my] success.” Putting myself ~ feelings and all ~ “out there” in a written forum such as this is a HUGE step outside the box for me. You wouldn’t believe the beads of sweat that form upon my brow as I contemplate clicking that ominous “post” button! Although I’ve posted twice during this challenge, I really wanted to participate every day. So today Leesa and Sophfronia ~ I’m giving myself permission to write my way to change and I’m doing it now. [insert beads of sweat here . . .]
http://twitter.com/mckra1g mckra1g

Holy B.A.L.L.S.! No guts, no glory, Claudia. You have really taken today's post to heart. FWIW, if you need a support system, feel free to contact me. Best to you, M.
http://twitter.com/mckra1g mckra1g

I opened an account with a self-publisher/POD company. Within 3 months, I will have a book available for purchase in hardbound/online form.

Whoo hoo!
mirkogosch

This post reminds me of this great song “A little less conversation” by Elvis. Sure, nothing gets done by simply expressing an intention to do something and I confess that too many times I have fallen short after having expressed something I was about to do.
Although I also do believe that it can be helpful to express one´s intention to trusted friends as in my case it helps me to stick with the intention and the implementation. The best way to implement any undertaking for me has always been to get moving into action immediatley after I´ve made the decision -even it was only a small step towards the goal.
Thank you, Leesa, for this action inspiring post
Mirko
Anonymous

Well you certainly caught me at a game I didn’t even know I was playing. But as soon as you said it, the penny dropped. So what I am going to do is to stop telling people what I am doing and actually take steps toward doing them. I am in the middle of a bunch of projects and then I stalled and got stuck. But I have continued to tell people I am this and I am doing that. So today, I will do some of those things, Even if it is just one step in each area, then it is one step forward. And then I won’t feel inauthentic because my words and actions are incongruent.

Another thing that struck me about what you posted was the inauthenticity of the guy who made the video. Claiming everyone else was using slick techniques on their about me page, when in fact he did the very same thing by using a video. Hmmm….

I wish people would stop attempting to sell themselves, it’s a real turn of. Instead??? Just be.
- http://www.randomshelly.com/blog/ Shelly
  
  Yeah – I think I’ve been playing the game too! Just think – even if the people you’ve been ‘talking’ to about your project don’t notice you finally did a part of it – YOU will!
http://www.wrightplacetv.com/ Dr Wright

Awesome post. I feel the same way. The truth is, most of the people who are saying that, do not really live that way. They did at one time perhaps, but they are not living it now. You never hear Stevie Wonder, Oprah or Richard Branson saying they have free time to do what they want to do. You just hear about them DOING it. It's all posturing. I hate the phrase I am changing the game and I hate the phrase, take it to the next level. It does not mean anything. My next level and your next level are 2 different things!

Let's get real here for once!

Also, its a big PR mistake to not have copy that anyone can use. If anyone was going to do an article on him, they have to rely on sad video. Not having good media training is backfiring on him!

Dr. Wright
Wright Place TV Show
http://www.wrightplacetv.com
drwright

Awesome post. I feel the same way. The truth is, most of the people who are saying that, do not really live that way. They did at one time perhaps, but they are not living it now. You never hear Stevie Wonder, Oprah or Richard Branson saying they have free time to do what they want to do. You just hear about them DOING it. It's all posturing. I hate the phrase I am changing the game and I hate the phrase, take it to the next level. It does not mean anything. My next level and your next level are 2 different things!

Let's get real here for once!

Also, its a big PR mistake to not have copy that anyone can use. If anyone was going to do an article on him, they have to rely on sad video. Not having good media training is backfiring on him!

Dr. Wright
Wright Place TV Show
http://www.wrightplacetv.com
http://twitter.com/thrivecoaching Vanessa Torre

I am having a Jerry Maguire sized WHOOO HOOOO moment for you right now. That just sent chills down my spine. So freaking awesome. I want to leave my job by July 1. Sadly, I don't think it's going to happen. But if it did, my two week notice would have to be given while I'm actually on vacation in Mexico. I have fantasies about writing “I quit” in the sand, taking a picture and emailing it. I mean, if you're going to quit your job, why not do it in style…
http://twitter.com/thrivecoaching Vanessa Torre

ROCK ON!
http://twitter.com/MikhaelaCraig Mikhaela Craig

Along those same lines, I remember my English teacher telling us not to begin a sentence with “I think…..” Whatever you write is obviously how you think! Just state it! And in this post, you are suggesting to go beyond even “stating”, and just DO it. Have the confidence to know that what you are doing is RIGHT, BELIEVE it, and move ahead FULL FORCE, without getting an “OK” first, and without looking back (but still taking time to write about your progress!).
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Caring-Creates-/228986840568 Sally G.

This morning I left the house, bought breakfast and filled 2 pages of all that needs to be done by Thursday morning. I've assigned names to aspects I do not need to do myself. I've scheduled 'group time' for my daughters and I to accomplish certain aspects of this list together (w/ music and good humour) – and I am now shutting down my browser and email programs so I can dedicate 2 hours of focussed energy to an assignment due on Wednesday. One step at a time, I'm determined to get there …
http://twitter.com/marksherrick Mark Sherrick

Right to the point, nice and blunt. I love it.

Talk. Is. Cheap.

Shut up and do it.

Show me what you've got.

I hate talking. I'd rather do instead. I hate weekly sales meetings where you talk about what you did and what you're going to do. I like to go out and DO IT. How I told you I was gonna do it isn't how I did it anyhow, it was what you wanted to hear.

I'm pretty sure you all know why I'm here. I don't need to explain myself. I can, but I'd rather you figure it out. It's worth a lot more that way.
Anonymous

Okay….just what I needed…a good kick in the butt !! Thanks Leesa, loved this post. As someone told me yesterday, don’t exist, LIVE !!
Now, my blog is my target TO DO. Have been messing around with it for 4 months. Tonight I take action, even if it’s just a wee little post. There!! I will post link later tonight or in the a.m.
ROCK on !!
- http://www.randomshelly.com/blog/ Shelly
  
  You would, scratch that – WILL be amazed at how quickly and easily your posts come over time!
  - Anonymous
    
    It’s 8:30 pm CST and still a blank page looks back at me…UGH!!
    - http://themarketingmark.blogspot.com MarkSherrick
      
      the blank page is only scary when its blank – get something down on it, even if its not what you’re going to use.
    - Anonymous
      
      Don’t judge Deb – just write. Anne Lamott uses this exercise. Think of a two inch photo frame – better yet make one. All you have to do is write what you “see” in that two inch frame. Not very much. But enough to get you started. It will be amazing.
http://twitter.com/mckra1g mckra1g

Thanks, Vanessa. All I need to do is take one step at a time.
http://www.accessabundance.com/ Teresa Romain

Thanks for this today Leesa!

These words hit home for me more than you will ever know… “If you have to tell me that you’re being different, it means you’re looking for permission. And if you’re looking for permission to change things around a bit, it means you’re still letting fear strangle your success.”

This is my life – in a nutshell – and what has sabotaged my success – in sports back in high school and in my business still today. I have a coach who challenges me with this question all the time “Are you thinking it, talking it or walking it?” But today I got what the “talking it” has been about – it's been about permission, acceptance, guarantees and about not actually having to change.

Now for the change you asked for. This past Saturday I gave a BRAND NEW workshop that I created from scratch based on what was authentic and real for me to teach/share and that would create value. No copying other people's style or material. This one came from inside of me. Didn't use any of the “safe” tools or concepts I've used for years that I know people “like”. Threw it all out the window and created something new. And – GET THIS – I did not explain why or that I was doing it this way in the workshop – despite the fact that several people in the room were clients who have worked with me for years and were used to my “old way”. I just did it… and I felt so free, authentic, BALLsy (to use Sandy's acronym from the other day)… and, based on comments from the attendees, it was also WAY MORE valuable for them. Your post today had me get the “personal victory” in that workshop in addition to the “business/professional victory”. Thanks so much!
ramartijr

Nice Leesa! Id add.. dont just say, “I love you.. ” Love.
http://kcarpenter.pnn.com/ QuestionKerri

For the last 3 weeks, I have tried a new recipe each week.

P.S.
Love the song today. I danced to “Boogie Shoes” in my first dance recital when I was 4 years old. YoungKerri rocked out!
Anonymous

I think the line I love best, Leesa, was where you said “…my declaration of change has no meaning unless I do something.” Words are empty unless they are backed up by action. It’s just the reminder I need to keep moving forward and actually doing what I’m “talking about” rather than just ‘talking about it.”

Thanks for cutting to the chase and calling us out on all the jibber jabber we often fall into!
http://twitter.com/CherryWoodburn Cherry Woodburn

Alright Leesa. And go Cherry. Was just vacillating again, over some new copy for my website. Thank you for this post now, today. I'm sending off the copy! Damn that feels good.
TammyLT

I did take one thing I had wanted to do for ages, and lo-and-behold, I get to do it. I let go of the fear that first I couldn't do it, second the fear that I would be rejected and third the fear that I would be critisized for what it is I am actually going to be doing. I'm pumped so thank you for this series, I HAVE changed my game and it's not mediocre at best, it's EXTRAODINARY!
http://virtualeventsuccess.com Leesa Barnes

Wow Teresa! What an amazing breakthrough. I'm so happy that not only did you stop seeking permission, but you also decided to throw everything out the window & design your workshop your way and using your own voice. Good for you.
http://www.randomshelly.com/blog/ Shelly

They say that is what you have to do when you write! Just do it.. and like symetrk said Show don’t tell!

I agree it carries over into every aspect of your life… If you sit around talking about it all the time – when do you think you will get it done! Last night I wrote my grandmother a letter, made a note to put into my son’s lunchbox and wrote a note (2) for my husband that I place in his lunch and car! Little things – but I did just do them! (though I did talk about writing to my grandmother in yesterdays comments!

This is a very timely post for me and a lot of us I can see that! Thanks!
- Anonymous
  
  I actually think that life is made up of little actions – and yours were beautiful.
laurieboris

I needed to improve my health, so I just started. I admit that I blogged that I was going to do this, to enlist some support, but then I just started. Did the things that needed to be done. There are other areas I need to work on, but baby steps, right?
laurieboris

Ugh, when I was in the 9-5 world, I HATED sales meetings – they were the biggest waste of time, all that blah, blah, blah about things we “wanted” to get done “somehow,” but they rarely got done. I wanted to just go back to my office and DO something.
Anonymous

Leesa
Thanks for the call to action.
So, today I wrapped up the revision of a Big research article and sent it off to a major journal. It described the impact of our project to improve how people support one another at work. Great results, but lots of technical stuff to get them across to picky audiences. But it so much more satisfying to convince picky audiences, so I’ve got to deal with them.

Anyway, that one is done and gone. I really like closure.
But one thing done and gone, makes room for the next on the list.
I’d best make time to celebrate first.
- Anonymous
  
  Plan the celebration before you start! I like doing that cuz I can say “THIS is what you get when you finish!” Helps motivate me across the finish line.
  
  And congrats on finishing!
http://www.BoomerangPresentations.com/ Lily

Hi! I also hate it when I catch myself explaining my actions to others when no one's even asked me why and probably isn't interested. For me, I have to say I consistently have mixed feelings of awe and resentment when I read about how much money someone's making on sales pages, blog posts, testimonials, etc. (Michele deKinder Smith has been writing about some new FTC regulations re use of such testimonials- have you heard anything about that?) I'll probably feel differently when I'm making millions a year, but for now, those statements ring a little too much of “I'm making a bunch of $$ with little effort and you're NOT!” Sure, I'd call that inauthentic.

Anyway, thanks for the reminder, and here's to taking imperfect action and overcoming insecurities like the need to explain yourself!
http://virtualeventsuccess.com Leesa Barnes

Okay, so everyone here inspired me to follow my own advice. Believe me, I usually do walk my walk, but today, I caught myself saying something like, “Oh, I’ll do that tomorrow.” Then, I re-read this post, read your accomplishments and finally put together a blog series to support a teleclass I’ll do in mid-February. I wrote up 5 blog posts and all I have to do is schedule them in my blog. Thanks for the inspiration.
- http://www.insanelyserene.wordpress.com Linda@InsanelySerene
  
  Leesa,
  
  Awesome! Two quotes come to mind in response to your post: “Try not. Do…or do not. There is no try.” (Yoda) and “Show me the money!” (Jerry Maguire). I have (nearly) eliminated the word “try” from my vocabulary. I’ve noticed when I talk too much about something before doing it, I’m scared. I’m building up the courage to do it. I like your post, it gives me courage and I like that you’re taking your own advice!
  
  Linda
- http://twitter.com/lipdesign Lori Paquette
  
  Leesa, when you call yourself on your own post, we know you’re the real deal! That takes B.A.L.L.S. Thank YOU for the inspiration! Today I completed the medical insurance appeal form I agonized over for the past 4 weeks. Done, get that damn date in the books, people, so I can have my surgery and move on. Was refreshing to tell BCBS that a nominal investment now could potentially save them thousands of dollars in the event I have a stroke or heart attack as a result of their denying this surgery. People in cubicles should not decide what kind of patient care people get. My docs in oral surgery will be pissed but tough. I’ve waited 2 years for this to happen. S**t or get off the pot, as my dad used to say.
- Anonymous
  
  YAY for you my friend!!!
Kristin

Said no and took some time off just for me.
- Anonymous
  
  Awesome Kristin.
tehjess

Congrats on pushing that “Publish” button, Lola!!!!!!!! It's great to hear from you!
LatoyaA

Wow…I needed that. You’re right, too often we’re too busy saying why we’re qualified, instead of showing our quality work. I incorporated by events company in December, but have been stalling on working on my brand and building my website. So, today, I’m taking the plunge. HTML here I come! And I’m going to dedicated time to write posts for my blog more regularly.
tehjess

Whoo hoo!! You go girl!
jen.

LOVE this post, Leesa. I love how you even give examples from your own website, simply, bravely and without beating yourself up about it!

What I've done, I just realized, is shown up all week. Today I didn't even put off clicking the link until I had more time to respond, I just came here straight away. Simple enough, but I'm pretty chuffed about it!

I do think that stating what we are going to do is empowering in here, in this context and program, because it makes us accountable to ourselves and the tribe, and gives us the supportive energy of the others here. I know that my thoughts are with each person whose comments I read, and I feel them cheering me on too! It's funny that support doesn't need to be approval any more, which is truly a breakthrough concept for me.

What I will do, I will come back and show off about!
Anonymous

“More is caught than is taught” – I’ve heard that in a lot of parenting information, but I think that also applies here. Thanks for reminding all of us to get up *do* something. Now it is time for me to work on my bucket list and play some piano.
joecheray

I am a big proponent of the old saying “Actions speak louder than words.” I have found that being around people that just sit there and talk about what they want to do and never act on it destroys my faith in them. I am just like”Just do it already will ya?”
http://twitter.com/lipdesign Lori Paquette

YES!!!! Way to go, Claudia!
kristieschwanebeck

Well you certainly caught me at a game I didn't even know I was playing. But as soon as you said it, the penny dropped. So what I am going to do is to stop telling people what I am doing and actually take steps toward doing them. I am in the middle of a bunch of projects and then I stalled and got stuck. But I have continued to tell people I am this and I am doing that. So today, I will do some of those things, Even if it is just one step in each area, then it is one step forward. And then I won't feel inauthentic because my words and actions are incongruent.

Another thing that struck me about what you posted was the inauthenticity of the guy who made the video. Claiming everyone else was using slick techniques on their about me page, when in fact he did the very same thing by using a video. Hmmm….

I wish people would stop attempting to sell themselves, it's a real turn of. Instead??? Just be.
Pingback: Tweets that mention Escaping Mediocrity » Blog Archive » Telling Me You’re Changing the Game is Mediocre at Best [Day 15 - 30 Days to Changing Your Game] -- Topsy.com
sarahrobinson

We interrupt our regularly scheduled programming for the BIG DRUMROLL!!!!!

I am thrilled beyond words to announce that once the 30 Days to Changing Your Game Blog Series is over, we will Kick It Up even more with The Game Changers Roundtable: http://www.gamechangersroundtable.com. 12 of my trail-blazing, game-changing friends and I are going to sit down over “virtual coffee” and talk about the whys and hows of what they do. AND it is free. If you want mp3's, CD's, transcripts, etc., those are available for purchase.

I haven't announced this to the public yet because I wanted to share it with all of you. AND, because you are so awesome, if you decide you the mp3 recordings, use coupon code HOOLIGAN for $10 off. That coupon will be good until midnight tomorrow (Tuesday) night. Then I will announce it to the whole entire world.

I really hope you will join us!
http://twitter.com/JoyFull_deb Deb Bruser

Okay….just what I needed…a good kick in the butt !! Thanks Leesa, loved this post. As someone told me yesterday, don't exist, LIVE !!
Now, my blog is my target TO DO. Have been messing around with it for 4 months. Tonight I take action, even if it's just a wee little post. There!! I will post link later tonight or in the a.m.
ROCK on !!
http://twitter.com/JoyFull_deb Deb Bruser

I just signed up for Evareething :=)
http://twitter.com/JoyFull_deb Deb Bruser

Holy Moly….you REALLY stepped up to the plate and hit one right out of the park!!!! WOOO HOOOO !!
Keep on keepin on!!!
http://twitter.com/JoyFull_deb Deb Bruser

How 'bout: ” Its a done deal!!” or “Consider it DONE!!”
I like your revised Nike slogan.
http://twitter.com/JoyFull_deb Deb Bruser

YAY for YOU….congrats!! I'll be experiencing those beads of sweat as I post my first eva blog up for all the planet to see….although, I truly don't expect the entire planet to even know that it exists…HA!!
http://twitter.com/JoyFull_deb Deb Bruser

WoW…lots of ACTION happening in this community!! WOO HOO is right…Congrats!! HUGE, HUGE step!! Looking forward to reading it.
http://twitter.com/randomshelly Shelly

Those are 2 words that made me pause reading! Way to go!
http://twitter.com/JoyFull_deb Deb Bruser

BINGO…I knew there was a song out there that summed this post up beautifully….Elvis song!! I was kinda singing just that one phrase and couldn't quite put my finger on the rest….and now, I'm singing it. Thanks.
http://twitter.com/randomshelly Shelly

That would be great style! and even if they were mad – they'd have to smile
http://twitter.com/JoyFull_deb Deb Bruser

awhhhhh….its that beautiful or what??? (((HUGS)))
http://twitter.com/randomshelly Shelly

Sticking to things is the hard part I think! Good job!
http://twitter.com/randomshelly Shelly

I like that show don't tell… I had never thought of it as “my brain already thinks its done” but I can see how that is true!
http://twitter.com/randomshelly Shelly

Wow that has got to feel good! Way to go!
http://twitter.com/randomshelly Shelly

I'm with you on the meetings! What a waste of time most of them are – I have had some productive meeting in my career – but more of the type that you described!

Great reply to read.
http://twitter.com/randomshelly Shelly

Oh my favorite is having a meeting to schedule meetings… Really??
http://twitter.com/randomshelly Shelly

Wow Teresa! that is quite an accomplishment and inspirational!
http://twitter.com/randomshelly Shelly

Baby steps are always good because they are steps and eventually will turn into big steps and then possibly leaps!
http://twitter.com/randomshelly Shelly

Congrats on the breakthrough! I am cheering for everyone one here too! Can't wait to see and hear about people bragging about what they accomplished (I agree in this format and forum)!
http://twitter.com/randomshelly Shelly

I actually just read something like that in a book about raising children… if they see you doing things – they will too – if all they see is you sitting around talking about things and you try to get them to do them… they won't!
http://twitter.com/randomshelly Shelly

Yeah – I think I've been playing the game too! Just think – even if the people you've been 'talking' to about your project don't notice you finally did a part of it – YOU will!
Nazima Ali

‘Show don’t tell” is something writers always have to keep in mind when telling their stories. Great to be reminded that the same goes for living our lives. Four times today I’ve read something on living your truth, being authentic and follow through. Definitely time to start listening since truth is a word that keeps coming up for me this year.

I’ve already gone back to regular workouts this weekend as per my goals. More to come tomorrow. Thanks Leesa. Love straight shooters:)
http://twitter.com/randomshelly Shelly

You would, scratch that – WILL be amazed at how quickly and easily your posts come over time!
lorilatimer

I think the line I love best, Leesa, was where you said “…my declaration of change has no meaning unless I do something.” Words are empty unless they are backed up by action. It's just the reminder I need to keep moving forward and actually doing what I'm “talking about” rather than just 'talking about it.”

Thanks for cutting to the chase and calling us out on all the jibber jabber we often fall into!
http://twitter.com/randomshelly Shelly

They say that is what you have to do when you write! Just do it.. and like symetrk said Show don't tell!

I agree it carries over into every aspect of your life… If you sit around talking about it all the time – when do you think you will get it done! Last night I wrote my grandmother a letter, made a note to put into my son's lunchbox and wrote a note (2) for my husband that I place in his lunch and car! Little things – but I did just do them! (though I did talk about writing to my grandmother in yesterdays comments!

This is a very timely post for me and a lot of us I can see that! Thanks!
michaelleiter

Leesa
Thanks for the call to action.
So, today I wrapped up the revision of a Big research article and sent it off to a major journal. It described the impact of our project to improve how people support one another at work. Great results, but lots of technical stuff to get them across to picky audiences. But it so much more satisfying to convince picky audiences, so I've got to deal with them.

Anyway, that one is done and gone. I really like closure.
But one thing done and gone, makes room for the next on the list.
I'd best make time to celebrate first.
laurieboris

Ugh, I'm having flashbacks to bad coffee, pantyhose and irrelevant status meetings…
http://virtualeventsuccess.com Leesa Barnes

Okay, so everyone here inspired me to follow my own advice. Believe me, I usually do walk my walk, but today, I caught myself saying something like, “Oh, I'll do that tomorrow.” Then, I re-read this post, read your accomplishments and finally put together a blog series to support a teleclass I'll do in mid-February. I wrote up 5 blog posts and all I have to do is schedule them in my blog. Thanks for the inspiration.
Kristin

Said no and took some time off just for me.
Anonymous

I am done with my PC flier yeah me!!!!! It took me a better part of 5 hours to get it done but it is done. I am now going to print it off and see what it will look like. Talk about a “Just do it and get it over with” moment.
- http://twitter.com/lipdesign Lori Paquette
  
  Congratulations! Hope you are celebrating.
LatoyaA

Wow…I needed that. You're right, too often we're too busy saying why we're qualified, instead of showing our quality work. I incorporated by events company in December, but have been stalling on working on my brand and building my website. So, today, I'm taking the plunge. HTML here I come! And I'm going to dedicated time to write posts for my blog more regularly.
http://www.soulfilledlife.com Heather Gray

Congrats Megan — on blog and on getting back to morning pages! I look forward to “just reading it”
marvelousmartha

“More is caught than is taught” – I've heard that in a lot of parenting information, but I think that also applies here. Thanks for reminding all of us to get up *do* something. Now it is time for me to work on my bucket list and play some piano.
http://www.insanelyserene.wordpress.com Linda@InsanelySerene

Leesa,

Awesome! Two quotes come to mind in response to your post: “Try not. Do…or do not. There is no try.” (Yoda) and “Show me the money!” (Jerry Maguire). I have (nearly) eliminated the word “try” from my vocabulary. I've noticed when I talk too much about something before doing it, I'm scared. I'm building up the courage to do it. I like your post, it gives me courage and I like that you're taking your own advice!

Linda
http://twitter.com/JoyFull_deb Deb Bruser

It's 8:30 pm CST and still a blank page looks back at me…UGH!!
http://themarketingmark.blogspot.com MarkSherrick

the blank page is only scary when its blank – get something down on it, even if its not what you're going to use.
http://themarketingmark.blogspot.com MarkSherrick

well, two of three aint bad. But yeah, I couldn't stand meetings that were basic ego boosts to those who cant get it anywhere else. I would almost always come in late, having been doing something, and then accidentally on purpose schedule a conference call and have to leave right after I would say something like “sold this…and this….didn't sell this…oh, and I have a call to go to, gotta go sell something. bye”
http://twitter.com/beadlolabead Lola

Thank you! =D
http://twitter.com/beadlolabead Lola

I started a blog and made random posts every now and then for TWO YEARS before I told anyone about it! Can't wait to see you blog! =D
sarahrobinson

Megan – when I started Escaping Mediocrity, people were always asking me questions like – who is it for, who is the target market, how are you going to monetize it, blah blah blah. I was very happy saying. “I don't know. I just love doing it.” YOU GO!
http://themarketingmark.blogspot.com MarkSherrick

Now you are truly living the 30 days….holy crap. You're definitely ROCKing your BALLS as hard as you can.
sarahrobinson

wow claudia. Just wow.
http://themarketingmark.blogspot.com MarkSherrick

Sentences don't begin with I think, newspaper articles don't begin with in this article, term papers don't have any explanation beyond the introduction, etc. Don't waste time, just get to it.
sarahrobinson

Yay Lola!! Very often I feel like I might throw up when I am about to hit Post. Then I hit Post anyway and am glad.
sarahrobinson

Baby steps are where it's at! What is the next indicated thing – do just that. The rest will take care of itself. SO proud!!
sarahrobinson

That song has been in my head since Day #1. Love that you added it here!
sarahrobinson

SO proud of you my friend!! Such courage – yay!!
sarahrobinson

Got video of that performance?!
sarahrobinson

Awesome Cherry! You just reminded me of something Andrea Lee tells me all the time “EVERYTHING is in Beta. Everything. ” You can always change it later.
sarahrobinson

w00t Tammy!!!
sarahrobinson

Lily – I know MANY of the people who make statements like that, and lte me say take it all with a grain of salt. Much of what people claim simply isn't true. And I now delete/unsubscribe from anything that makes me feel bad. Don't want that energy anywhere near me. And yep – give yourself permission to do it badly. you will be amazed.
sarahrobinson

Oh Jen. This is EXACTLY what I hoped would happen for people in the 30 Day Challenge. Watching all of you with each other and knowing down in my heart that you all are doing this WITH each other and without much help from me at all is such a beautiful thing. Thrilled.
sarahrobinson

Don't judge Deb – just write. Anne Lamott uses this exercise. Think of a two inch photo frame – better yet make one. All you have to do is write what you “see” in that two inch frame. Not very much. But enough to get you started. It will be amazing.
http://twitter.com/lipdesign Lori Paquette

Leesa, when you call yourself on your own post, we know you're the real deal! That takes B.A.L.L.S. Thank YOU for the inspiration! Today I completed the medical insurance appeal form I agonized over for the past 4 weeks. Done, get that damn date in the books, people, so I can have my surgery and move on. Was refreshing to tell BCBS that a nominal investment now could potentially save them thousands of dollars in the event I have a stroke or heart attack as a result of their denying this surgery. People in cubicles should not decide what kind of patient care people get. My docs in oral surgery will be pissed but tough. I've waited 2 years for this to happen. S**t or get off the pot, as my dad used to say.
sarahrobinson

I actually think that life is made up of little actions – and yours were beautiful.
sarahrobinson

Plan the celebration before you start! I like doing that cuz I can say “THIS is what you get when you finish!” Helps motivate me across the finish line.

And congrats on finishing!
sarahrobinson

YAY for you my friend!!!
sarahrobinson

Awesome Kristin.
Kristin

Wow. You are really changing your game. Way to go, Claudia!
Nazima Ali

'Show don't tell” is something writers always have to keep in mind when telling their stories. Great to be reminded that the same goes for living our lives. Four times today I've read something on living your truth, being authentic and follow through. Definitely time to start listening since truth is a word that keeps coming up for me this year.

I've already gone back to regular workouts this weekend as per my goals. More to come tomorrow. Thanks Leesa. Love straight shooters:)
joecheray

I am done with my PC flier yeah me!!!!! It took me a better part of 5 hours to get it done but it is done. I am now going to print it off and see what it will look like. Talk about a “Just do it and get it over with” moment.
Pingback: Escaping Mediocrity » Blog Archive » How Not Changing My Game Changed My Game [Day 16 - 30 Days to Changing Your Game]
Anonymous

I used to be in a buisness where I worked 80 plus hours a week.

No wonder no one else wanted to join me……

“Do as I say, not as I do” just doesn’t work- but it’s easy to forget when I can see so clearly in someone else what I refuse to see in myself.

Ouch.

and Thanks!
http://twitter.com/lipdesign Lori Paquette

Congratulations! Hope you are celebrating.
http://twitter.com/SpiritusShelagh Shelagh at Spiritus

I used to be in a buisness where I worked 80 plus hours a week.

No wonder no one else wanted to join me……

“Do as I say, not as I do” just doesn't work- but it's easy to forget when I can see so clearly in someone else what I refuse to see in myself.

Ouch.

and Thanks!
claudiaq

Thank you all so much for your comments – those in my real world think I am a bit mad – maybe I am, we'll see!!!
http://twitter.com/JamieLaceyPR jamielacey28

Alas, I’m two days late here… But, I can proudly say, 6 months ago, I DID IT! I left my very comfortable, corporate job of 6+ years to start my own freelance PR consulting firm. (And, as I mentioned before, this was in the midst of having moved myself, my 13-year-old son and my Labrador Retriever) from one Maryland suburb to another – 60 minutes (and a whole world) away and getting remarried! Since end of last June, I have started to build a varied and interesting book of business while devoting more time to my son (who jokes that he’s my CEO) and new family AND taking up some rewarding new or renewed hobbies (like yoga, a book club, and cooking classes). As a result, I’m happier, more enthusiastic about each day, and providing better service to my clients, my family and MYSELF. Some days, I may get a little discouraged and wonder how/why/what I was thinking when I decided to go out on my own during the worse economy in decades, but most days I’m fired up and ready to conquer what’s ahead. I wouldn’t change a thing.
http://twitter.com/jamielacey28 jamielacey28

Alas, I'm two days late here… But, I can proudly say, 6 months ago, I DID IT! I left my very comfortable, corporate job of 6+ years to start my own freelance PR consulting firm. (And, as I mentioned before, this was in the midst of having moved myself, my 13-year-old son and my Labrador Retriever) from one Maryland suburb to another – 60 minutes (and a whole world) away and getting remarried! Since end of last June, I have started to build a varied and interesting book of business while devoting more time to my son (who jokes that he's my CEO) and new family AND taking up some rewarding new or renewed hobbies (like yoga, a book club, and cooking classes). As a result, I'm happier, more enthusiastic about each day, and providing better service to my clients, my family and MYSELF. Some days, I may get a little discouraged and wonder how/why/what I was thinking when I decided to go out on my own during the worse economy in decades, but most days I'm fired up and ready to conquer what's ahead. I wouldn't change a thing.
http://www.accessabundance.com/ Teresa Romain

Thank YOU my friend!!!!
http://www.accessabundance.com/ Teresa Romain

Thanks for that line Leesa… about “using my own voice”. Never thought of it that way… but that's what it IS about, isn't it? Ironic… I have a pretty good singing voice… but even there, I have always wanted my voice to be like someone else's voice. So… there a lot here for me. Tx!

Escaping Mediocrity

Telling Me You’re Changing the Game is Mediocre at Best