The Power of Going First

The Power of Going First: A Lesson in Confidence

In life and business, we often find ourselves in situations where fear and hesitation can hold us back. The story you’re about to read speaks directly to that. It’s a lesson about courage, boldness, and the benefits of going first, both in the workplace and in our personal lives.

Let’s dive into a moment of daring adventure: a bungee jump over a river in the south of France. It wasn’t just any jump; it was the first time I had ever attempted it. The fear was real, the stakes high, and the situation didn’t help, as I watched the crew begin brown taping the rope—yes, brown tape! This wasn’t exactly a comforting sight for anyone about to take a leap from a high point. However, instead of sitting back, watching others go, and letting anxiety build, I made the choice to go first.

That leap wasn’t just a physical act; it was a demonstration of how much power comes from seizing the moment, embracing discomfort, and tackling fear head-on. While looking back at that decision years later may bring thoughts of "what was I thinking?", the lesson is invaluable: when you go first, you don’t let your nerves fester or grow.

Now, this principle extends far beyond a bungee jump. It’s a crucial lesson for anyone in the business world, especially when you find yourself in meetings or environments with people more senior or intimidating. Often, when faced with these situations, we tend to hesitate. We sit back, observing, waiting for someone else to speak, and with each passing moment, self-doubt begins to creep in.

What if my comment isn’t smart enough? What if I say something wrong?

But here’s the thing: You’re in that room for a reason. Someone believes in you. And when you speak first, not only do you contribute your perspective, but you also shape the conversation for others. You establish your voice early, making a statement that you’re not just a bystander—you’re an active participant.

Why Speaking First Matters

1. It builds confidence: The more you speak up, the more comfortable you’ll become in asserting your opinions, even in high-stakes situations. It reinforces the belief in your own capabilities.

2. It prevents second-guessing: Waiting too long to share your thoughts often leads to overthinking. By the time you decide to speak, someone else may have already said what you were thinking, or you might convince yourself that your idea isn’t good enough.

3. It creates a ripple effect: By going first, you encourage others to share their ideas. Your boldness can inspire confidence in others, fostering a more open and productive discussion.

4. You set the tone: The first speaker often influences the direction of the conversation. By going first, you have the opportunity to highlight key points that others may build upon.

So the next time you find yourself in a meeting, whether it’s with peers or senior executives, don’t wait. Seize the opportunity. Speak first, share your thoughts, and trust that you belong in that room. Like the bungee jump over the river in France, taking that first leap will lead to experiences and opportunities that you might have otherwise missed.

In both life and business, there’s undeniable power in being the one to go first. Embrace it.