Ever hear a news story and it just sticks with you? This was the case for an interview that NPR did with soccer star Julie Foudy.  Take a minute to read or a listen to Julie!

I remember exactly when I heard this story too: it was on the way to my photo shoot for my new website and marketing consulting business. I wanted to “own it” on the shoot and be myself.

Julie Foudy talks about how she learned about different styles of leadership from her soccer team mates. She explains:

They showed me that asserting your own leadership style is most important — being authentically you.

This reminds me of the quote that goes something like, “Be yourself. Everyone else is taken.”

Don’t be afraid to be uniquely you, find your voice, and do something that matters to you. In the process of getting out of your comfort zone, you may surprise yourself and inspire others along the way.

Starting my own business has had moments of sheer excitement and panic. “Am I really doing this?” has crossed my mind more times that I can count. Still, I persist in times when I feel uncomfortable or uncertain. I trust the network of friends, family and colleagues who have provided support and encouragement.  I step back and do research to help be more prepared and informed about whatever it is that I’m facing. I’m doing it all in my own way, owning my awesome!

And that photo shoot that I mentioned earlier? I think the results help show my awesome.

Cheers to owning your awesome! Have a great Monday!