Showing Up Before I Felt Ready
- albrewstergraning
- May 28
- 2 min read
There were many moments in my life where fear, grief, self-doubt, and uncertainty tried to convince me to stay small. But one thing I have continued to learn is that growth does not always begin with confidence. Sometimes it begins with simply deciding to show up anyway.
As a Realtor licensed in both Florida and Alabama, an entrepreneur, author, and Women’s Council of Realtors leader, I have had the opportunity to step into rooms that once intimidated me. From leadership meetings to networking events and community involvement, I often found myself battling internal fear while still trying to grow professionally and personally.
For a long time, I believed strong women were the loudest people in the room. I now understand that strength can also look quiet. It can look like continuing to move forward while healing. It can look like encouraging others while rebuilding yourself at the same time.
One of the greatest lessons I have learned is that courage is not about having everything figured out. Courage is continuing even when you are unsure of yourself.
Three things helped me continue growing:
Give yourself permission to grow slowly.
Stop waiting to feel completely ready.
Continue showing up, even on difficult days.
Today, I continue building my business, growing as a leader, and encouraging other women through my writing and personal experiences. My journey is still unfolding, but I hope other women understand they do not have to be perfect to pursue growth, leadership, and purpose.
Bio: Quanah McBride is a Florida and Alabama Realtor, entrepreneur, author, and Women’s Council of Realtors leader passionate about encouraging women through leadership, resilience, healing, and personal growth.
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The line about growth not starting with confidence really hit home—I’ve turned down so many opportunities waiting to feel “ready.” Showing up anyway is the only way I’ve ever actually learned. I’ve been using a daily journaling prompt to keep that momentum going, check it out here. https://seedance-2.dev
The line about growth not starting with confidence really hit home—I’ve waited for that green light so many times and missed the room entirely. Showing up anyway is the only way I’ve ever actually learned, and I’ve been using a daily check-in to keep myself honest. https://rodinai.net
The line about growth not starting with confidence really hit home—I’ve turned down so many opportunities waiting to feel “ready.” Showing up anyway is the only way I’ve ever actually learned, so I’m saving this as a reminder for my next big leap. I’ve been using https://hy-3d.com
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The line about growth not starting with confidence really hit home—I’ve turned down so many opportunities waiting to feel "ready." Showing up anyway is the only way I’ve ever actually learned, and I’ve been using a daily checklist to keep myself accountable. https://glmmodel.com