It's reasonable to assume that most people are more comfortable following than leading, responding rather than initiating, or going second rather than going first. They worry about being rejected, or venturing into the unknown.

But if we don’t buy a ticket we can’t win the lottery. If we don’t shoot we can’t score. If we don’t ask, the answer is no by default. And if we don't try we've failed already.

With this in mind, a simple way that many people can create more opportunities for themselves is just to get comfortable going first, rather than waiting around hoping someone else will seize the initiative.

Remember, the only possible downside to asking for something is hearing “no”, which is exactly the same outcome as not asking. The potential upside of taking a first step, however, is unlimited.

I shudder to think of all the amazing friendships, client relationships and opportunities that would have passed me by if I hadn't been willing to initiate things. I'm pretty glad I suggested getting together for coffee with Csaba Konkoly after we met at a party, for example. We wouldn't have ended up writing our book together otherwise. It's as simple as that.

Be willing to go first. It’s a small difference that makes a huge difference.

See this post on LinkedIn