Yesterday, I had the incredible opportunity to be featured on a CBS 8 news segment. It was one of those full-circle moments—standing there, sharing my story, talking about my business, and realizing just how far I’ve come.
Then, the anchor hit me with a question: “What advice would you give to young women who want to start their own business?”
Without even thinking, I said: “Stop waiting for permission.”
And as soon as the words left my mouth, I felt it. That truth wasn’t just for them—it was for me, too.
The Permission Trap
For so long, I felt like I needed permission. Permission to step out. Permission to take up space. Permission to trust what God had already placed inside me.
Many of us grow up in environments where approval is the currency of acceptance. We’re taught to ask before acting, to seek validation before moving, to wait until someone qualified tells us we’re ready. But as adults, that mindset can turn into a self-imposed ceiling.
The truth is, most of the things you’re waiting for permission to do—no one is coming to give you the green light. You are the one who decides. God has already given you access, authority, and ability.
And while wise counsel and structure have their place, excessive hesitation often stems from fear—fear of failure, rejection, or getting it wrong. But what if getting it wrong is just part of getting it right?
God Already Said Yes
We hesitate because we think we need someone to validate us. But if God has put something inside of you, you already have permission to move. His Word makes it clear:
• “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
• “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” – Ephesians 2:10
• “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9
God isn’t waiting for you to be more ready. He’s waiting for you to trust that He already made you ready.
Give Yourself the Green Light
A few years ago, I might have answered that question differently. I would’ve talked about the importance of having a plan, doing research, and finding the right timing. And while all of that matters, I’ve learned something even more important:
The right time is when you decide to start.
So, if you’ve been waiting—waiting for approval, waiting to feel confident, waiting for someone to tell you you’re good enough—let this be your sign:
Stop waiting. Start moving.
What’s something you’ve been waiting for permission to do? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear what you’re stepping into!