Happy Friday, Intertwined community!

This morning, I submitted an application to be a TEDx speaker.

That sentence alone makes me laugh a little.

As part of the application, I had to write a two-minute speech and record myself giving it. You would not believe how many times I practiced it. Or how many times I recorded it. And deleted it. And recorded it again.

But here’s the part I keep thinking about: When I started my first professional job, I was terrified to talk to people. If I had to make a phone call, I would literally outline what I was going to say before I dialed the number. Even then, my voice sometimes shook.

And now I’m applying to stand on a TEDx stage? What the heck!

There are so many things I have done over the past few years that I never imagined I would do.

I started a business at 50. I’ve traveled to unfamiliar places looking for artisans and products. I’ve walked into trade shows knowing almost no one. I’ve pitched magazines and major retailers. I’ve asked strangers to trust me. I’ve made mistakes. I’ve heard no. A lot. And I keep trying things that make me uncomfortable.

Not because I suddenly became fearless. I think it’s because I found something I believe in enough to make the discomfort worth it. I believe there is power in knowing the people behind the things we buy.

I believe a purchase can be more than a transaction. It can help preserve an art form, create meaningful work, support a family, and remind someone halfway around the world that what they make has value.

And when you believe deeply enough that something can have an impact on someone else’s life, sometimes you find yourself doing things you never thought you could do.

Like recording the same two-minute TEDx video approximately one million times.

So maybe this is my encouragement to you this Friday: do the uncomfortable thing. Make the call. Send the email. Apply for the opportunity. Start the project. Speak up.

Especially when whatever is on the other side of that discomfort might make life a little better for someone else.

You may surprise yourself. I certainly have.

Happy Friday!

Ginger