Just Write It

I’ve always loved Nike’s Just Do It campaign. It’s simple. It’s powerful. And, honestly, it’s something I need to remind myself of daily.

Because when it comes to writing—or really, anything that requires putting myself out there—the hardest part isn’t the work itself. It’s the starting.

I can be a masterful procrastinator, especially when the stakes feel high. And for me, writing has always been one of those things I avoid—not because I don’t love it, but because writing that truly connects almost always requires vulnerability. Sharing personal experiences, failures, and risks makes me feel exposed. 

"What if people think I sound foolish?"

"What if they judge me?"

"What if they think I’m a loser?"

But here’s what I’ve learned: In business, if you don’t speak up, if you don’t share your ideas, you are ceding your power. I did that for too many years, and it’s not something I ever want to do again.

Writing isn’t just about putting words on a page. In the business world, writing is:

• A chance to share your ideas and contribute to the conversation.

• A way to make your work visible—especially to leadership.

• A tool for collaboration, drawing others into discussions about an idea or a strategy.

• A method to stand out and demonstrate leadership.

Does it open you up to criticism? Sure. Someone might roll their eyes and say, “There she goes, grandstanding again.”

But as a wise mentor once told me: “It’s none of your business what other people think of you in the business world.” 

Your job isn’t to be liked. Your job is to do great work—and make sure it’s seen.

It’s easy to fill our days with “maintenance work”—answering emails, crossing off small to-dos, responding to other people’s priorities. And while those things can be necessary, they don’t drive my success.

The real work—the work that moves the needle—requires persistence (if not courage). It requires carving out time to think, to create. For me, it requires turning writing into a habit so that sharing my voice becomes second nature.

So, I remind myself that Nike had it right:

Just do it.

Or in my case—Just write it.

How do you incorporate writing into your professional journey?