MAKING SPACE FOR MYSELF TO STEP INTO THE SPOTLIGHT: A Creator’s Reluctant Journey

When I first considered writing my book, it started with a very clear vision: to showcase remarkable individuals who’ve crafted interesting and fulfilling and good careers.

These are people who discovered how to use their 90,000 working hours in ways that don’t require self-sacrifice, yet create genuine impact. They’d found that sweet spot of “good for you, and good for the world.”

I find it easy to see the gifts and potential in others. And I enjoy shining the light on them. But placing that same focus on myself felt a little more uncomfortable. I preferred my role of curating an interesting list of people to highlight to others.

But something unexpected kept happening. As I shared my vision with friends and colleagues, they’d often re-directed the conversation:

“These are wonderful stories, but Georgi, I want to understand your journey. Tell me more about that.” Eeeek!

But, I listened, and I included fragments of my experience in the book — what felt relevant and authentic, but honestly, those anecdotes are just small segments of the whole book.

This pattern repeated when I launched the podcast a few months ago. Several listeners reached out asking, “What about you, Georgi? Why does this matter so much to you? What “is YOUR story?”

Each time, I felt this internal resistance—a pulling back from the spotlight, a preference to direct it toward the remarkable people I interviewed.

But here’s the truth: For whatever reason, I’m uncomfortable in the spotlight. It’s probably partially because I am introverted. But, I know it’s more than just that. I am great at illuminating others’ brilliance, by asking the questions that reveal their wisdom and insights. Standing in that glow myself? That’s another story entirely.

Yet, the universe has its sense of humor and timing — of course! The lessons we’re meant to learn often arrive disguised as challenges we’d rather avoid. I’m beginning to accept that part of my writing and podcasting journey involves learning to stand in that light, too—not just shining it elsewhere.

I find this both amusing and terrifying, especially as the book gets closer to launch, and I continue finding my groove as a newbie podcaster. Not only that, but I am exploring ways to share the spotlight. Like it or not, I am the author. And, I am the host of the podcast. Through podcasting, I have more flexibility to experiment and learn. I am figuring out what stories of mine I can share alongside the wonderful people I interview — in tandem feels OK for now.

Authenticity in Creation: Why My Voice Matters Too

So here I am, taking a deep breath and stepping forward. I’m working on consciously sharing more of my journey alongside the superstars I interview. Not because my story is more important but because authenticity invites authenticity.

Perhaps by embracing my discomfort with visibility, I might create a more honest space for others to do the same.

So, let’s see where this goes. I’m learning as I create, stumbling forward with purpose. Thank you for being part of this journey—I’m grateful to have you along for the ride.

Your work should feel meaningful—Work That’s Worth It shows you how

 Purchase the book today and discover practical steps to align your career development with purpose. Then, keep the inspiration going by listening to our podcast, where we chat with people doing incredible things. Start your journey today!

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify

Join our community of Disruptors for Good on Instagram, making their work count.

Georgi