Are You Waiting for the Other Shoe to Drop?

Lately, I’ve been thinking about how many businesses and organizations are holding their breath—waiting. Waiting to see what’s going to happen with the economy. Waiting to find out if funding is going to come through. Waiting to see if a grant gets renewed or if a customer’s budget gets slashed.

I catch myself doing it too.

I start wondering: What if my job changes? What if the funding that pays for my position dries up?
Am I just going to wait around for a two-week notice and then scramble, asking myself, Now what?
How will I pay my bills? What’s my next move?

It’s easy to get caught in that limbo—watching, worrying, waiting—but not doing.

The truth is, many of us sit still, thinking something might happen… but we don’t take action while we wait. And that inaction can cost us valuable time and opportunity.

What if instead of waiting, we did something now?

What if we updated our résumés, just in case?
What if we started exploring other income streams—maybe picking up freelance work, running some ads, or experimenting with passive income ideas?
What if we reached out to new contacts, or pursued professional development just because we can, not because we’re being forced to?

If nothing changes, great—you’re more prepared and more skilled.
If something does change, you’re already two or three steps ahead. You might already have a job application in, or a side hustle started, or a financial cushion building.

Being proactive doesn’t mean you’re disloyal or panicking. It means you’re prepared.

Too often, people wait for the other shoe to drop—then they panic. But those who take action early, who look ahead, who stay adaptable? They’re the ones who land on their feet.

That’s why I keep learning new skills. I keep my résumé up to date—even when I have a job. I keep looking for new opportunities. Because today, I might have two shoes. Tomorrow? I could have none. But if I’ve been paying attention, taking steps, and staying ready—then maybe I’ll end up with a better pair.

The good news is, even if nothing bad happens, taking action now still benefits your business and your life. You’ll be stronger, sharper, more ready for whatever comes next.

Because let’s be honest—none of us are making our mortgage payments selling 8-track tapes. Times change. The world moves forward. And if you’re standing still, stuck in the same old routine, chances are you’ll be caught in the same old threats.

Opportunity is on the other side of action.
So don’t wait for the other shoe to drop—lace up, and start walking.

Comments

One thing I learned working in a paper mill – Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today.   Tomorrow will have enough of its own problems

Larry

Your Tuesday email was spot on! A side-gig is a great way to develop a new skill. Personally, I’ve never stopped learning new skills. And with the recycling and self-sufficiency trends so popular there are so many ways to go.

cvsharkey