There comes a point when you realize that the life you want isn’t just going to happen—it’s something you have to create. Maybe you feel stuck in a routine that no longer excites you. Maybe you have dreams but keep waiting for the “right time” to go after them. Or maybe you’ve been knocked down by life so many times that getting back up feels impossible. If any of that sounds familiar, then this is for you!
They say wisdom comes with age, but as you are about to discover, wisdom also comes from experience. The inspiration for today's topic comes directly from my interview with James Brackin IV, a young entrepreneur, life coach, and podcast host who is about to drop so much wisdom in your lap that you will certainly question his young age.
What exactly will you learn from James Brackin?
? You’ll learn how to shift from fear-driven motivation to purpose-driven action.
? You’ll gain insight into how to stop waiting for permission and start trusting yourself.
? You’ll discover the mindset shifts that will help you turn challenges into steppingstones for growth.
? You’ll leave feeling empowered to take action and finally create the life you want!
And if you want to take it even further... Listen to James Brackin IV firsthand in Episode 370 of Grit, Grace, & Inspiration. In our conversation, James dives deeper into his journey, his lessons, and the practical steps you can take to start moving forward today.
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Setting the Stage: Meet James Brackin IV
James knows exactly what it feels like to question what’s next. After losing his father, uncle, and grandfather—all unexpectedly—at a young age, James could have easily let his circumstances define him. Instead, he made a decision: to take control of his future and bet on himself.
By the age of 17, he had invested in his own growth, launching a coaching business and starting his podcast, You Can Too, where he helps others break through limiting beliefs and step into their fullest potential. Today, still only in his early 20's, James is proof that wisdom comes as much from life experiences as it does from age.
Your Fear Is Keeping You Stuck—And It’s Time to Flip the Script
James posed a powerful question: Are you driven by fear, or are you driven by passion?
Most of us are running away from something—a life we don’t want, a job we hate, a future we fear. But what if, instead of running from something, you started running toward something?
James made a shift from fear-based motivation (avoiding struggle) to purpose-driven motivation (chasing excitement and fulfillment). And that shift changed everything.
? What this means for you: If fear is in the driver’s seat, it’s time to take back control of the wheel! Get crystal clear on what you really and truly want out of life. What gets you excited? What lights you up? What could you talk about all day long? Whatever "that is," start chasing after it!
Stop Waiting for Permission—Bet on Yourself Instead
At 17 years old, James invested more money than he had in a coaching program. He didn’t have all the answers. He didn’t know how he was going to make it work. But he said yes anyway.
And that one decision? It changed the entire trajectory of his life. Here's what's cool, the same can be true for you too!
? What this means for you: You don’t need to have it all figured out. You don't need to have anyone else's blessing or approval. And you don't need to be given permission. This is your life! And the smartest investment you can ever make is in yourself! So, if it feels right, if you feel excited, if you have butterflies in your stomach, then it's time for you to take the leap!
Stop Looking for the Finish Line—Start Enjoying the Process
So many people are chasing an outcome—a career, a title, financial freedom. But what happens when you get there?
James realized something powerful: The joy is in the journey, not the destination. The goal isn’t to rush through life to retirement. It’s to create a life you never want to retire from!
? What this means for you: If you’re only working for the weekend, if you’re constantly waiting for “someday” to feel happy, it’s time to reassess your life. Because if you're not living a life that fulfills you, brings you joy and satisfaction, then what's any of it even worth?
Your Pain Can Become Your Purpose—If You Let It
James went through unimaginable loss at a young age. It would have been easy for him to become bitter, resentful, and to allow this adversity to take hold of his life. Instead, he asked himself a different question:
"How is this happening for me, not to me?"
? What this means for you: The hardest things in your life are either going to break you or build you. You get to choose.
Your Next Step: Stop Waiting, Start Moving
If you’ve ever doubted yourself…
If you keep waiting for the right time…
If you know deep down that you are meant for more…
And if you understand that our time here on Earth is limited...
Then now is the time to take action. Your future isn’t waiting for you to feel ready. It’s waiting for you to make a move!
Be Inspired by How James Overcame Childhood Loss, Found Purpose, & Empowers You to Do the Same
And if you’re ready to take this inspiration and turn it into action, listen to Episode 370 with James Brackin IV. He shares even more insights, personal stories, and real-world strategies to help you stop waiting and start creating the life you truly want.
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