You Do NOT Need Permission

In a world where we often wait for approval, one message stands out: You do not need permission. This idea hit home for many during a recent talk, where the speaker shared his journey from uncertainty to empowerment. He learned that taking action is the key to success, not waiting for someone to give you the green light.

Key Takeaways

  • You can create your own opportunities.
  • Action beats waiting for permission.
  • Personal growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone.

The Turning Point

Back in 2005, the speaker found himself in a tight spot. His wife was pregnant with their first child, and he was feeling the pressure. Living in a small studio apartment in New York City, he was a director of sales but had bigger dreams. He wanted to be a vice president of sales, but he didn’t know how to get there.

Instead of waiting for a promotion or a new job to come to him, he took matters into his own hands. He started a blog. Yes, a blog! It was a simple step, but it changed everything for him.

Why a Blog?

  • Showcase Skills: The blog allowed him to demonstrate his knowledge and skills in sales.
  • Build a Network: It helped him connect with others in his field.
  • Create Opportunities: Ultimately, it led to a job offer as a vice president of sales at a different company.

This experience was a revelation. He realized that he didn’t need anyone’s permission to pursue his goals. He could just go out and do the thing.

The Power of Action

The speaker’s story is a reminder that action is powerful. Here are some reasons why taking action matters:

  1. Overcoming Fear: Taking the first step can help you face your fears.
  2. Learning by Doing: You gain experience and knowledge through action.
  3. Creating Momentum: Small actions can lead to bigger opportunities.

Stop Waiting

Many people hold back, waiting for the right moment or the right approval. But the truth is, that moment may never come. Instead of waiting:

  • Identify Your Goals: What do you want to achieve?
  • Take Small Steps: Start with manageable tasks that lead you closer to your goal.
  • Stay Committed: Keep pushing forward, even when it gets tough.

Conclusion

The message is clear: You do not need permission to chase your dreams. Whether it’s starting a blog, launching a business, or pursuing a new career path, the power lies in your hands. So, stop waiting and start doing. Your future self will thank you for it!

Who’s the Coach?

I’m Chris Dessi.

Tech entrepreneur. Author. Talking head.
But before any of that—I’m a builder.

I’ve spent the last 20+ years helping companies grow:
From dot-com chaos to SaaS scale-ups to AI-powered everything.
I’ve sold software across continents. Closed $32M in deals using AI.
Built and exited businesses. Bombed a few too. All of it made me sharper.

Today, I run Torque AI, a marketing automation platform built for the 99%.
Small business owners. Solopreneurs. Operators with too much to do and not enough support.
We give them AI superpowers—without the hype, the jargon, or the BS.

I’m also the founder of AI Summit NYC, where real business owners come to learn how to actually use AI to drive revenue.

When I’m not building, I’m writing books, speaking on national TV, and coaching execs through reinvention—with a baseball bat in one hand and a meditation app in the other.

I believe reinvention is our greatest asset.
I believe AI isn’t the threat—it’s the test.
And I believe if you’re not adapting, you’re eroding.

Let’s build something that matters.

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