I'm taking you back to 3rd grade and the snarky trick Ms. Crowder played on our class and the life lesson that took me many years to learn from it. Find out how following the leader can get you further away from achieving your goal, and keep you stuck from accessing your own expertise and voice. Episodes Highlights: The shift in learning from the "experts:" I'm giving you MY answers, but I don't know THE answers. Experts are sharing everything they think you need in books and training, but you need to follow you! No one has the all answers. How assimilation can, particularly for women, can keep you from speaking up, doing the hard thing, and stepping into your own thought leadership and authority. How to go against the grain, be vocal, and why it's the key to letting your mission shineFollowing the leader results in homogeneous, boring marketing. The same redundant calls-to-action and boring social campaigns. Your audience wants to hear YOUR unique point of view. When it comes to endless "suggestions" and feedback, take what you need, and leave what you don't! Plus, hear about why I chose to have a waterbirth with my son, and how I dealt with vast, unhelpful opinions from friends and family, and "experts." When you create your own strategy, unique point of view, or decision, you must trust and believe in yourself first in order to create the support to handle the naysayers. Thoughts to think, on purpose: The magic is in forging my own path.I get to decide what's best for me in my business.There is not one right next step, only the one I decide is right.Other resources: Dr. Wendy Mogul, "Voice Lesson for Parents" Tony Robbins documentary, "I Am Not Your Guru" on Netflix. Send me a direct message and tell me your Ms. Crowder moment over on Instagram Links may contain affiliate tracking links Resources mentioned: Easy Emails for Impact: My email marketing course for nonprofits, consultants, and social impact businesses. Learn more here: www.splendidcourses.com/easyemails Amplify Social Impact: My signature digital marketing and online fundraising course. If you’re ready to start a profitable digital ambassador program or influencer marketing program, this course is for you! Sign up for my free masterclass and get $200 off the course here. Private coaching: This is the fastest way to kickstart your growth and have support, strategy, and momentum to grow sustainably without burning out. Start by scheduling a discovery call here. Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn. For more information about Christina and Splendid Consulting, visit www.splendidatl.com Join the Purpose and Profit Club weekly newsletter here. Music by The Selmanaires, featuring "Selmanaire Rock."