I don’t write a lot of posts with specific directives. Typically I try to offer up some perspective or advice. Today I’m going to tell you what to do.
Start something today.
It doesn’t matter what you start but start something. What I mean is, create a blog, start a YouTube channel, start a podcast…DO SOMETHING!
The introduction of blogs gave anyone the freedom to build an audience. All you have to do is be interesting (sure, it’s more complex than that when you REALLY dig into it, but to start a channel, is free and all it takes is an idea).
Even though anyone can become a media channel, 98% of my friends do not have a blog, they do not have a YouTube channel (that they post on), they have Facebook (and maybe Twitter), but they don’t use it to build a brand, or advance their careers and lives, or connect with others of similar interests.
Why not?!
I think, for some people, the idea of creating content, or “putting yourself out there” is scary. I get it. But at the same time, let me offer this.
There has NEVER been a better time in the world to do exactly what you want. The barriers have been removed. You can create your own story.
Don’t just rely on your resume to get you into the right job…that’s nonsense. You don’t need anyone’s permission to work your ass off and know more about something than anyone else.
There are no more barriers but the window of opportunity is closing.
Why am I writing this post today? Because a call to action is needed! It’s time to stop waiting on the sidelines while the first movers garner all the attention and success. There WILL come a time, very soon, when the internet will be saturated with content. Right now it’s noisy, and a little chaotic, but we’re approaching critical mass, and when we hit it, the rich will get richer, and the rest won’t be able to crack through the surface. It will be almost impossible to stand out purely on the merit of your content.
It is time to start putting down your roots.
The world has changed.
If you look at the world from a macro perspective, you should be able to see the impact of relevant content.
You should be able to see how our buying behaviors have changed from the impact of mobile, and online shopping.
You should be able to see how our social habits are changing, from texting to Facebooking to Tweeting.
You should be able to see how the nature of work is changing, with more crowdsourced opportunities, collaboration platforms, mobile workforces and a growing population of freelancers.
This is not a drill, this is not a coincidence. This is a massive shift and its taking place before your eyes and TODAY is the perfect time for you to start getting involved.
You don’t need to understand everything to understand this: you can have a voice, you can tell a story. Whether you write, speak, or make videos, the technology has never been easier and the channels are right there for you to learn.
What are you waiting for?
Everyone has some reason not to…what is yours? And if you’re ready to start something…how can I help you do it? Sound off in the comments.