The Rhythm of Waiting and Working: A Reflection for Brand Builders in Motion

When you're building something from scratch or rebuilding something with a new purpose, life feels like a dance between patience and urgency. Some days it hums with progress. Others, it stalls in silence. And if you're the only one holding the vision, it can feel like no one else understands the mix of hope and hesitation swirling inside.

I stumbled on a quote recently that made me stop in my tracks: "Being ready is a myth. You start. You suck. You figure it out. You get better."

It’s raw, real, and freeing. Because readiness is not the goal. Forward motion is.

So if you’ve been waiting to feel ready or have convinced yourself your idea needs to be fully formed before it’s shared, let me offer five gentle but practical ways to move. Each one meets you in the tension of waiting while honoring the power of work.

1. Timebox Your Momentum

I keep a habit tracker at my desk. It’s a visual reminder of what I'm working toward, especially when distractions threaten to pull me off course. I track 3–5 habits tied to my current goals: devotional time, movement, focused work, reading, and creating. They’re simple. They’re small. But they help me show up, even when motivation wavers.

Try this: Set a timer for 30 minutes, choose one task, and let your mind settle into motion. Progress rarely announces itself with fireworks—it often arrives quietly, through patterns.

2. Publicly Practice Progress

I get nervous when sharing my ideas, and a thought often rings in my mind: “If I haven’t shared it, I can’t fail.” But every time I’ve opened up, even just a little, my ideas have grown. Someone will ask me about that thing I mentioned. Then, almost like magic, a referral comes. Visibility creates accountability. Visibility also sparks connection.

Try this: Post a work-in-progress, invite feedback, and let people in on your journey. You don’t need the polished version to spark belief.

3. Track Micro-Wins

My calendar isn’t just for appointments, it’s my progress journal. I add tasks and events so I can see the footprint of my work. It’s also been a handy tool to revisit important details. And honestly? Nothing beats marking a task complete. It’s a quiet celebration of follow-through.

Try this: Keep a digital or paper log of your completed tasks. This is not for judgment, just recognition. Every small step is a building block.

4. Create Rituals That Anchor You

I learned this one the hard way, 20 years ago, juggling business, motherhood, and marriage while digital tools were just emerging. I gave myself permission to designate certain days for specific work. My team and family knew Thursday mornings were for marketing, and I treated that time like a client appointment. Soon, my progress became visible. I wasn’t scattered, I was steady.

Try this: Set weekly rituals. Choose a time for planning, creating, or outreach and honor it as if it matters because it does.

5. Write Your ‘Why’ Where You Can See It

Sounds simple, right? But have you ever actually tried to write your “why”? It can feel paralyzing, either too big or too small. At times, I wasn’t clear because I thought my reasons weren’t significant enough. Truth is, your “why” doesn’t need to impress anyone. It just needs to light a fire in you.

Try this: Block time to reflect. Journal. Pray. Talk it out with a trusted mentor. Once you land on a “why” that stirs you, post it where you’ll see it often. It’s not just motivational, it’s directional.

Building a brand is more than strategy—it’s soul work. And if you’re walking that road right now, especially after a season of pause or rebuilding, know this: you’re not behind. You’re not broken. You’re becoming.

So take the next small step. Not because you’re ready—but because you're worthy of growth.