In our book, How to Get the Most Out of Coaching, A Client’s Guide for Optimizing the Coaching Experience, we discuss a distinction we learned from our coach and friend, Steve Chandler, about the difference between the default and created life.
We point out that coaching often helps our clients shift from their auto-pilot default way of living to a very consciously created life.
Years ago, I was working with a senior leader who mentioned wanting to leave his organization in three years to strike out on his own. He had a brilliant idea for a business. I was curious why he was going to wait three years. What would be different?
After a deep discussion, we realized nothing was stopping him from taking action except living in his safe, default life. Once he had this epiphany, we were off to the races, creating his new company. His demeanor showed a remarkable positive transformation in all subsequent coaching sessions.
After he had experienced his breakthrough realization, we immediately began building his new company. I’ve seen this happen again and again.
Leaders wait for some imaginary moment when everything will be “ready.” But the truth is, readiness is a myth. There’s no perfect time, no magical green light. It’s just a decision to step forward.
Our default way of life is filled with reasons to wait. However, the creation of life starts when you decide to take the first step.
I’ve watched leaders come alive when they stop hesitating and start building. The excitement, the momentum—their world expands as they lean into what they truly want.
What if the thing you’re waiting for isn’t a future moment but a shift in mindset? What if the clarity, energy, and confidence you think you’ll gain later actually comes from taking action now?
Let’s bring it back to you: What are you putting off for “someday” that you could choose to create today? What’s one small step you could take right now toward that future? Are you willing to take that step?