She is a Career and Personal Development Coach with almost ten years of experience. Her expertise is in Job & workplace readiness, career planning, growth, and personal development. Her work focuses on helping individuals build their capacity for career progression, navigate job transitioning with ease and achieve personal effectiveness using results-oriented methods.
Let me tell you something about living with audacity. It’s not about being loud or reckless (although, if you catch me in the right mood, I might be both). Audacity is about daring to live boldly, even when you’re not entirely sure how things will turn out. It’s the “go big or go home” mindset, except you actually show up and go big.
I’ve lived a life where being audacious wasn’t just an option, it was the only way forward. From growing up with next to nothing, to building a career, starting businesses, and navigating relationships, I’ve learned that boldness changes everything.
Audacity in your career
Careers can feel like a never-ending episode of The Apprentice; lots of competition, a few questionable decisions, and someone always thinking they’re the smartest in the room. But if you want to succeed, you’ve got to be bold.
Dream big (even if it sounds daft)
Years ago, I set my sights on working in leadership roles in top companies. Did I feel ready? Absolutely not. But here’s the thing: if you wait until you’re ready, you’ll be waiting forever. So, I got stuck in, took some risks, and figured it out as I went. Dreaming like your life depends on it because, sometimes, it does.
Speak up (even if you’re sweating buckets)
The first time I spoke up in a meeting, I was convinced I’d faint. I didn’t, but I did earn respect for having the guts to share my ideas. Speaking up is scary, but it’s worth it. Whether you’re asking for a pay rise or pitching a new idea, don’t let fear keep you silent.
Be brave enough to walk away
I’ve walked away from jobs that didn’t align with my values or goals, and trust me, it wasn’t easy. But audacity sometimes means letting go of the comfortable to chase the extraordinary. If you’re miserable at work, it might be time to consider a bold move.
Audacity in business
Starting and running a business is a bit like being on a rollercoaster, lots of highs, a few terrifying drops, and occasional moments of, “Why did I think this was a good idea?” But boldness is what keeps the ride exciting.
Take risks (within reason)
When I started businesses like DKT (Destiny Kids & Teens), I didn’t have all the answers. I still don’t! But taking calculated risks has always paid off in one way or another. Sure, some things flop, but even failures teach you something valuable.
Stand out (even if it’s uncomfortable)
I’ve done some wild things in business, like starting my own vulnerable podcast platform, organising spelling bees,running a bookclub, travelling through different countries where I am not known to organise in person workshops. Were they nerve-wracking? Absolutely. But standing out is the only way to get noticed. Be bold enough to do what others won’t.
Prove the doubters wrong
People have doubted me plenty of times. (They probably still do, bless them.) But instead of letting their doubts hold me back, I’ve used them as fuel. Nothing feels better than succeeding when someone said you couldn’t.
Audacity in relationships
Let’s be real; relationships can be messy. Whether it’s with your partner, your kids, or your mates, there’s no one-size-fits-all guide. But living with audacity in your relationships can make them more meaningful.
Be honest (even when it’s awkward)
I’ve learned the hard way that bottling up your feelings does no one any favours. Being honest, about your needs, your struggles, or even your mistakes,is bold, but it builds trust and connection.
Set boundaries (and stick to them)
Audacious love isn’t about letting people walk all over you. I’ve had to set firm boundaries, and while it wasn’t always easy, it was necessary. Respect yourself enough to say, “No, this doesn’t work for me.”
Celebrate the people who matter
Whether it’s my kids, my close friends, or my wider community, I try to show up and celebrate the people who matter to me. Boldness in relationships isn’t just about asking for what you need, it’s about giving back, too.
Why audacious living matters
Living audaciously doesn’t mean you won’t fail. Trust me, I’ve had my fair share of setbacks (and more than a few embarrassing moments). But audacity is what helps you get back up, dust yourself off, and keep going.
Here’s how to start living audaciously today:
Start small: Take one bold step, apply for that job, start that side hustle, or finally text that friend you’ve been thinking about.
Learn from the failures: When things go wrong (and they will), don’t beat yourself up. Laugh about it if you can, and keep moving.
Surround yourself with bold people: Energy is contagious, so hang out with people who inspire you to take risks and dream bigger.
Audacious living has brought me here from a childhood spent hustling to make ends meet to a life I’m proud of, filled with work I love and people I cherish. If I can do it, so can you.
As 2024 winds down, take a moment to reflect: What bold move will you make before the year ends? Go on, be audacious. Step into 2025 with courage and a spark of daring. You might just surprise yourself!
Read more from Esther Aluko
Esther Aluko, Career & Personal Development Coach
She is a Career and Personal Development Coach with almost ten years of experience. Her expertise is in Job & workplace readiness, career planning, growth, and personal development. Her work focuses on helping individuals build their capacity for career progression, navigate job transitioning with ease and achieve personal effectiveness using results-oriented methods. Her speaking engagements span the United Kingdom, Belgium, West Africa, and Ireland with corporate organizations and higher education institutions.
