Why "Not Yet" Doesn't Apply to Full-Size Leadership

Leadership isn't measured in years—it's measured in impact, authenticity, and the courage to show up fully in every space you occupy. Yet as I navigate the journey of bringing my book on full-size leadership to the world, I've encountered a familiar refrain: "You're young. It's early for you."

But here's what I've learned through my years in leadership: there's no perfect time to share your truth, and there's certainly no age requirement for living authentically.

The Publishing Reality Check

Recently, I began exploring options to publish my book on full-size leadership—a culmination of years spent learning, growing, and leading with intention. The traditional publishing route promises wide distribution but often leaves authors with minimal control and profit while publishers reap the rewards. Self-publishing offers creative freedom but demands significant personal investment in marketing and networking to reach readers.

Then I discovered a hybrid approach that seemed like the perfect middle ground—until I learned it would cost $60,000. Suddenly, the "perfect strategy" became a privilege reserved for those wealthy enough to finance their own success. This revelation hit hard: even in publishing, systemic barriers exist that can silence voices before they're heard.

The Age Question

During my conversations with publishing professionals, someone suggested that my youth might make my story less relatable or impactful. The implication was clear: wait until you're older, more established, more "worthy" of being heard.

But I reject this notion entirely.

As a young administrator, I've witnessed firsthand how authentic leadership transcends age. I've seen how showing up fully—bringing your whole self to your role—creates ripple effects that extend far beyond job titles or years of experience. I've learned that full-size leadership isn't about fitting into predetermined molds; it's about expanding those molds to make room for everyone.

Why Now Matters

The GRL community needs diverse voices and perspectives now, not later. Young leaders are navigating unique challenges in today's rapidly evolving landscape. We're balancing traditional leadership principles with innovative approaches, managing multi-generational teams, and addressing issues that didn't exist for previous generations of leaders.

My story—our stories—matter because they're happening in real-time. They're relevant because they're current. They're relatable because they reflect the experiences of countless young professionals who are also learning to lead authentically.

The "Not Yet" Resistance

"Not yet" is often code for "not comfortable." It's what we hear when our presence challenges existing narratives or when our authenticity makes others question their own approach. But full-size leadership means pushing through the "not yet" and creating space for your voice anyway.

I'm not done with my publishing journey. The $60,000 hybrid option isn't feasible right now, but that doesn't mean the message should wait. Sometimes the most important work happens in the spaces between traditional pathways—in the creative solutions we forge when conventional doors seem closed.

Moving Forward

While I continue seeking the right publishing solution, I'm committed to sharing insights and building community through other channels. The GRL Initiative exists precisely because we believe in the power of authentic leadership at every stage of our careers.

I'll keep writing, creating, and connecting with this community because the message can't wait for perfect circumstances. Full-size leadership means showing up with what you have, where you are, right now.

Your story doesn't need permission to be told. Your leadership doesn't need validation to be real. And your voice doesn't need to wait for "someday" to make a difference.

The GRL community is here because we believe in the power of living and leading authentically—regardless of age, experience level, or traditional markers of success. Together, we're redefining what leadership looks like when it's lived at full size.

What's your "not yet" story? How are you pushing through to create space for your authentic voice? Share your thoughts in the comments below.