Work hard.
Network.
Think smart.
Innovate.
Put in the time.
Build relationships.
These are all things you probably equate with success. But what comes before all these? What’s the precursor to opening these doors of opportunity in the first place?
It’s easier than you expect yet hard to follow through on. Two little words: show up.
Or if you want to throw a Nike spin on it: Just do it.
Show up to that meeting you don’t want to go to — you’ll meet people you can help and they may in turn change your perspective.
Go to your company’s family night — turns out it doesn’t matter what you say so much as you simply are present to form positive impressions and prove commitment.
Show up at that party, even though person X and Person Y will be there — don’t give others this leverage on your life.
Spend time with your friends; even when it seems like you have no time, afterward you’ll wonder how you’d have rather spent that time. If you’re nervous, step into the awkward — you’ll be better for it.
Go to your family outing and show them you care. Once there, you’ll have fun — it’s the deciding part that’s agony.
Show up as a volunteer, even if you’re the busiest person in a 100-mile radius. Others are inspired by your willingness to sacrifice your time for the greater good — there’s something insanely attractive about caring for a cause greater than yourself.
This applies to the small tasks as well. If it will take you less than 3 minutes to accomplish, do it now. It’s not worth the time and energy to reconsider doing later. Showing up for 3 minutes is better than none at all.
Show up every day at work. Literally. Just go. Orient your physical body in the office so you are tangible there. Do this on repeat every day. Before you know it, a day has gone by, then a month, then a year. And guess what? THAT is how you build clout. THAT is how you move forward and learn your own talents through trial and error.
Whatever thing you don’t want to do or attend at the moment but that may be beneficial to you or your community… THAT is what you need to go to. Just show up.
It matters less what you say and more that you were there. Period. People can’t think anything of you if they don’t see you.
Pretty soon, the dreaded “thing” will be over, you’ll be back home, and you’ll be saying to yourself, “huh. That wasn’t so bad. I’m glad I did it.”
And suddenly you’re 10 paces ahead simply by showing up. Fast forward a year, and just showing up can get you further than many other qualities and failed attempts combined.
So when in doubt? Just show up.
