Thirteen years ago, I began a journey that would lead me out of a very rewarding corporate career and into the relatively unknown world of business as an entrepreneur. At the time, I had no idea where it would lead, only that it was a journey I needed to take.

As most entrepreneurs do in the early years, I experimented.

I knew I wanted to help people find their unique gifts, and this took on different forms and fashion as the years progressed.

Today, I am thrilled to work with Maxwell Leadership and with the coaches, speakers, and business leaders who serve businesses, schools, communities, and organizations across the world. It is my ultimate joy to see the transformation that happens when we are able to help people identify their gifts and serve the world, each in their own unique way.

But recently, I was blessed in a way I had not imagined way back in 2010.

Back then, I wrote a children’s book, The Discovery Adventure Club. It was written as a fun way to show kids how they can have adventure, each in their own way. And how they can appreciate the differences in themselves and others.

But here’s the thing that I couldn’t see then: I couldn’t see that, thirteen years later, that book would serve as the bedtime story for my five-year old grandson, who loved it.

Life and business have had their rewards, but none as meaningful as this.

And so, I say to you, if you have a dream and a desire to do something purposeful, take the first step.

You don’t have to know where it will lead. In fact, you will have no idea of the possibilities. All you need to know is to take the first step.

If you are graduating from high school or college, take the first step.

Sure, you’ll experiment with different types of work. But in each job, you will find clues as to your unique gifts. You will learn your strengths and weaknesses, and that is the value of experience.

If you are looking to establish a corporate career, take the first step.

Look for a company with a culture that fits and a position that allows you to work in your strengths. Look for responsibilities that stretch you just beyond your comfort zone so you can grow and serve to higher levels. Apply. Make a connection. Take the first step.

If you are looking to start your own business, take the first step.

Identify your strengths and passion; and find a way to use those to serve others. If you have an idea, test it. You can do this while you are working your current job. You can build an income bridge that allows you to step across to entrepreneurship instead of stepping off a cliff into the unknown. But if this is your desire, do your homework and take the first step.

If there is something purposeful you are compelled to do, take the first step.

If you talk with people, as I do, they will often mention something that is of interest and importance to them. Generally, when this happens, they will think that everyone is similar and that their interest is nothing special; or they will think it is a small thing; or, conversely, they will think it is such a big dream that it couldn’t possibly be done.

The world is full of people who stop there.

But there are those brave souls who take that first step forward into opportunities they would have never imagined.

Big things. Small things. Meaningful things.

That small step you’re thinking of at this moment could lead to a legacy moment in your future.

What if you don’t take it?

Oh, but what if you do?

As the CEO of Strength Leader Development, Deb Ingino is a highly sought-after international executive mentor, coach, trainer, and speaker. Deb is well versed in global business operations and helps business leaders and their teams to discover and leverage their strengths, so they can create highly collaborative teams that deliver great results. With a refreshingly direct style, and using the Maxwell Method, Deb helps leaders and teams to deliver profitable results. Connect with Deb to learn more about her mentorship and coaching programs to equip you with advanced strategies to elevate your results