Stop Waiting for Permission: How to Take Bold Action Toward the Life You Really Want

Let’s get real for a second. How many times have you caught yourself thinking, "I’ll do that when the timing is perfect," or "I’m not sure I'm ready yet"?

If you’re nodding along right now, trust me—you’re not alone.

As a life coach, one of the biggest hurdles I see my clients facing isn’t a lack of goals or dreams—it’s waiting for permission to pursue them. The hard truth? No one is coming to give you that permission slip. But here’s the good news: you don’t need it.

This blog isn’t about fluffy motivation. It’s about getting you to finally stop waiting and start boldly stepping into the life you truly desire. Ready to dive in?

1. Recognize the Permission Trap

First things first: What exactly is the permission trap?

It’s the mindset that you need external approval before acting on your dreams.
It shows up as hesitation, procrastination, and self-doubt.

Do any of these sound familiar?

"I’ll apply for that job when I have one more certification."
"I'll start dating again once I'm fully confident."
"I’ll pursue that passion project someday, when life settles down."

Here's your wake-up call: Life rarely settles down, and perfection never arrives. Now is the best moment you have.

2. Understand Why You're Stuck Waiting

Let’s get deeper for a second: Why are we always waiting for permission?

Fear of judgment or failure: “What will people think?”
Perfectionism: “I can’t do it unless it’s perfect.”
Imposter Syndrome: “Who am I to do something great?”

Understanding your personal reason is key. Grab a notebook and answer this: "What’s one thing I’d do today if I wasn’t afraid of others’ opinions or failure?"

3. Practical Strategies to Stop Waiting and Start Acting

Enough talk—let’s get actionable. Here are real-world strategies to quit the waiting game:

Set Mini-Experiments:

Instead of big, overwhelming leaps, try smaller "experiments."
Example: Want to change careers? Schedule one informational interview or shadow someone in your desired field. Small steps create massive momentum.

Create an Accountability System:

Tell someone you trust about your goal. Check in weekly. When someone else knows your intention, you’re far less likely to stall.

Use the "5-Second Rule":

Inspired by author Mel Robbins: when you feel hesitation, count backward from 5, then immediately act. This simple technique disrupts doubt and helps you move forward instantly.

4. Write Your Own Permission Slip (Literally)

Time for a playful—but powerful—exercise:

Grab a sticky note or paper, and write yourself an official permission slip, like this:

“I, [your name], officially grant myself permission to __________ (take bold action toward a dream, set boundaries, start a project, etc.), starting today. No more waiting.”

Stick it somewhere visible. Make it official. Own it.

5. Celebrate Every Tiny Action

Listen closely: action breeds confidence. Even tiny steps forward deserve celebration.

Did you make a call you’d been dreading? Celebrate it.
Did you finally sign up for that class or seminar? Acknowledge your courage.
Every action, no matter how small, is proof you're no longer waiting—you’re taking control.

Final Thought: You Hold the Key to Your Freedom

Waiting for external permission is like waiting to live your life. Today, choose to break free from that pattern. Give yourself permission to act, stumble, learn, and grow.

You’re capable, ready enough, and deserving of the life you’ve been dreaming of.

Now it’s your turn—what bold action will you stop waiting on and start today? Drop it in the comments or send me a message. I can’t wait to cheer you on!

Here’s to living fully—on your own terms.