I triple dog dare you…

The ultimate dare… the triple dog. Forget about a wimpy dare or even the next level double dare. The triple dog dare is the one that gets your heart pumping.

I triple dog dare you, yes you, to take the next step in your creative journey. Or any journey for that matter. The step that’s tugging at your heart. You know the one. Deep down you have a flicker of hope and you’re ready to dive in. But those whispers of doubt extinguish that flame before you even start. Maybe you’re afraid to fail. Maybe you think “I don’t know enough yet.” Scared of what your family will say. Do you compare yourself and immediately feel deflated? So you choose to sit on the sideline. Watching, dreaming, and knowing you are just as worthy as every other player in the game. But fear has its grip on you.

We are wired to survive. You’ve heard the statement and I’ve said it myself, “You can do hard things.” Truth is you’ve already done hard things. Think of something you overcame. As difficult as it was, you survived. You’re now on the other side. I bet you’re stronger too.

I will never downplay the gut-wrenching challenges of life. Maybe you’re in a dark season now. Oh friend, I’m sorry your heart is ragged and weary. You may even be experiencing physical pain because of your emotional hurt. I’ve been there too and it stinks. Difficult seasons are not the time to force yourself forward on your creative journey. Maybe you need to give yourself permission to heal through purposeful, guilt-free rest. It’s necessary to pause and be still when you’re hurting. If your heavy season is now and your creativity is on hold, I suggest you read this blog another time when you’ve been fully restored.

Being wired to survive is one thing. But thriving is next level.

When we choose to thrive we’re choosing to do hard, scary things. It’s simply part of the process. Author John Maxwell says that failing forward is a step towards growth. Failing is simply part of the process too. Move forward, fail, learn, move forward, and do it again tomorrow.

“Just do it” is likely one of the most all time recognized slogans. It’s a brilliant, simple concept. But to pull it off you need ferocious courage. If you’re going to just do it, sooner or later you need to take the next step. Don’t flounder with “but which step should I take.” Just take a step… Any step forward is a good step.

If you know the movie “A Christmas Story” then you certainly know the triple dog dare scene. It’s winter and a group of boys are on the playground. One boy is challenged by his friend to stick his tongue on a frozen pole. Clearly this will not end well. His decision making skills need some help, but let’s not miss an underlying concept here. He was challenged. Or, in a strange way he was being encouraged. He was called out in front of his friends to prove something. He was forced to make a decision. He dug deep, mustered the courage and went for it. He learned some hard lessons for sure, but he survived. When we’re triple dog dared the adrenaline starts pumping and our survival instincts kick in. We have a visceral reaction to defend our abilities and capabilities. “Oh you think I can’t do that? Just watch me….” Reverse psychology at its finest.

But when we dare ourselves, it’s too easy to retreat. No one sees when we quietly back down. Nothing lost, nothing gained. We quickly extinguish our own flame causing growth to be snuffed out in an instant.

We all need an extra push sometimes to do that hard thing. Today, I’m pushing you…

I dare you friend. I triple dog dare you to do the hard thing. Take that next step. No matter how big or small… just. do. it.

Allow me to cheer you on and give you a high five. I have faith in you and your abilities. Maybe you’ve never heard the words you are worthy, capable and needed. Well, I firmly believe it and I’m telling you now… you are all of these things and more. Time for you to believe in yourself.

Want to start your own business? Go to the Secretary of State website in your area and search “How to start a new business.”

Want to write a book? Then sit for 15 minutes today and write. Free flow of thoughts and just write. Do it again tomorrow.

Want to get healthier? Go for a walk today. You did 10 minutes? Good for you! That’s fabulous! You did 10 minutes more today than you did yesterday. Do it again tomorrow.

Want to learn a new hobby or skill? Watch a free YouTube video. We have endless education at our fingertips. For free. Watch another lesson tomorrow.

But you really don’t need me to tell you what to do, you probably already know. You just need a push. You need encouragement. You need to be triple dog dared. Well today you are being pushed, encouraged, and dared.

Stop extinguishing your own flame.

No more excuses.

You are fully equipped and completely capable of taking that next step.

What is one thing you are capable of doing today that will make a difference tomorrow?

Are you ready to take your next step? I triple dog dare you…