Start Where You Are: The Truth About Not Feeling Ready
Arthur Ashe once said,
“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”
It’s a simple quote but it exposes one of the biggest lies we tell ourselves:
that we need to feel ready before we begin.
The truth? If you wait until you’re ready, you will wait forever. And someone hungrier, braver, or simply more willing to move while imperfect will take the opportunity you were too hesitant to step into.
I’m learning this in real time.
The Imposter Voice We All Face
Stepping into public speaking and motivational influence has pushed me into territory where I absolutely don’t feel comfortable. There are days I feel like an imposter — like I don’t have the polish, the presence, or the professional crew others have.
I don’t have unlimited time. I don’t have a studio. I don’t have a social media team or a massive budget.
What I do have is my story, my purpose, and a willingness to show up anyway.
The imposter voice still whispers:
“Who do you think you are?”
“You’re not experienced enough.”
“You’re not ready.”
But I’ve learned something powerful:
Feeling like an imposter doesn’t mean you’re unqualified; it means you’re growing.
You’re stepping into a version of yourself you haven’t been before. That discomfort is proof that you’re expanding.
Perfection Isn’t the Goal — Movement Is
I’m choosing to move anyway. To post videos even when my delivery isn’t polished. To speak even when I feel like my message isn’t seen or heard. To share even when my story feels raw.
Because what resonates with people isn’t perfection… it’s authenticity.
Every time I show up imperfectly, someone reaches out and says:
“I needed that.”
“I feel that too.”
“You helped me today.”
I realized my rough edges don’t disqualify me; they make me relatable.
They remind people that they don’t need to be perfect to begin either.
Your story, shared imperfectly, can be someone else’s turning point.
Small Steps Build Bold Confidence
In my last blog, I talked about moving mountains one stone at a time; this journey is no different.
Each blog post, imperfect Reel, small moment of courage, each rep, each mile, each moment of choosing to show up… They all become small stones that build something powerful: MOMENTUM.
And momentum builds identity.
I’m not becoming a speaker because I’m fearless. I’m becoming a speaker because I’m willing to take one small step at a time. Even with fear in my pocket.
This is the heart of Maselli Mindset and The Overcomer’s Journey:
Real transformation is born out of consistent, imperfect action.
Your Opportunity Won’t Wait
Maybe you have a dream or goal and you’re waiting for the right moment.
The perfect time. More money. More confidence. More clarity.
But here’s the truth no one tells you:
Life won’t pause for your readiness.
Opportunities won’t wait.
Your future won’t form itself.
You must take the first step as you are scared, uncertain, unpolished, but willing.
Just like I’m doing… Just like every Overcomer must do.
Start Where You Are
Arthur Ashe’s words aren’t poetic filler. They’re a blueprint:
Start where you are — even if it’s messy.
Use what you have — even if it feels small.
Do what you can — even if it doesn’t look impressive yet.
This is how you reclaim your fire.
This is how you build confidence.
This is how you create a life that reflects your potential, not your fears.
And if you feel like your spark went out, if you feel behind, if you feel like you missed your chance… You didn’t. Your moment is still waiting.
Your job is to take the first step.
Just start.
