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The Power of Showing Up: A 42-Week Journey
Ed Clementi
December 30, 2024
One of my favorite college professors once shared two truths that have stuck with me to this day: “Two-thirds of life is just showing up,” and, “If you can write well, there is almost nothing you can't achieve.” At the time, these words felt profound but distant, like advice meant for someone older and wiser. Yet, as the years unfolded, I’ve seen these principles prove true over and over again.
Showing up—even when scared, uncertain, or feeling unprepared—has been a cornerstone of my journey. And writing? It’s become my lifeline to connect, communicate, and create meaningful impact. This newsletter—the 42nd in a row—stands as a testament to those lessons, and it feels only fitting to close the year by reflecting on the power of consistency and the impact of showing up.
When I started this streak 42 weeks ago, I hoped that my articles, LinkedIn posts, and podcast episodes would resonate with someone. Just one person, one article, one idea making a difference—that’s all I ever asked for. Along the way, though, something unexpected happened. Over 1,000 subscribers joined this newsletter. My LinkedIn following grew to over 4,000. The podcast? Downloaded in 15 countries and 113 cities. But what’s surprised me most isn’t the reach; it’s the question I’m asked most often:
“How do you stay so consistent?”
It’s interesting, isn’t it? With all the lessons I’ve aimed to share, perhaps the most powerful one I’ve demonstrated is simply showing up. Week after week, no matter what life threw my way, I made a promise to be here. Consistency builds trust. It builds credibility. And, perhaps most importantly, it builds momentum. Showing up—especially when it’s hard—is where the magic happens.
Why Showing Up Matters
Life doesn’t always provide immediate rewards for effort. Some weeks, the words flowed easily. Other weeks, they felt like a battle. But in both cases, I showed up. And here’s why that matters: showing up, consistently, sends a powerful message to the world. It says, “This matters to me.” It says, “I’m committed.” And it says, “I’m here for the long haul.”
The ripple effects of consistency can’t be overstated. For me, it’s meant more than numbers and metrics; it’s meant impact. It’s knowing that somewhere, someone was inspired, challenged, or encouraged by something I shared. And that’s why I’m asking you to show up in 2025—consistently, with purpose and heart. Because it matters. It matters big time.
The Lessons of 42
As I reflected on this 42nd article, something struck me. The number 42 carries profound significance I hadn’t planned. Jackie Robinson, whose number 42 symbolizes courage and impact, once said, “Life is not important except for the impact it has on other lives.” That quote has guided me for years. Seeing this milestone align with his number feels serendipitous—a quiet nudge to keep showing up, keep making an impact, and trust the journey.
As we close the year, I want to share a few goals I’ve set for myself—not just as aspirations but as commitments to keep showing up in ways that matter most. I hope they inspire you to think about your own goals and how you’ll make 2025 your most impactful year yet:
Be Present: Yesterday is gone, and tomorrow isn’t promised. Learn from the past, plan for the future, but don’t let either steal from living fully today.
Keep Courage Alive: Have the courage to live with purpose, even when it’s risky or unconventional. Follow your heart. Think differently. Live boldly.
Live by Two Quotes: Jackie Robinson’s reminder: “Life is not important except for the impact it has on other lives,” and Maya Angelou’s wisdom: “People will always remember how you made them feel.”
Give Generously: The heart of giving is truly receiving. This year, I’ll embrace opportunities to give more—of my time, my knowledge, and my presence.
Connect and Reconnect: People matter. Relationships matter. Make the calls. Send the texts. Rebuild the bridges.
Travel and Experience: Life’s richness comes from new experiences. This year, I’ll prioritize exploring and soaking in the beauty of the world.
Work Hard on What Matters: Effort feels better when it’s tied to meaningful goals. I’ll double down on the work that aligns with my values.
Be Kind and Smile More: Kindness costs nothing but leaves a lasting mark. And smiles? They’re contagious.
Make Myself Proud: You can’t pour from an empty cup. This year, I’ll focus on achievements that fill me with pride and fuel me to keep giving my best.
Build Inspired Fire as a Movement: With faith and dedication, I’ll grow Inspired Fire into a movement that inspires bold action, generosity, and purposeful leadership—creating a ripple effect of positive change we can all be part of.
A Call to Action
Consistency is more than a habit; it’s a mindset. As we head into 2025, I challenge you to reflect on how you’ll show up—for yourself, your loved ones, your goals, and your dreams. Take the lessons from this year, let go of what no longer serves you, and step boldly into the future.
And remember: life isn’t important except for the impact it has on others. Show up with purpose. Show up with heart. Show up because it matters. If you do, I promise the world will feel your impact—and so will you.
Here’s to 2025. Let’s make it a year of showing up, giving our best, and living boldly. Are you ready? Let’s go!
As a reminder, my Free Learn to Lead Masterclass is on Jan 18-19, Reserve Your Spot Now!
With Absolute Sincerity,
Ed Clementi, Founder & CEO of Inspired Fire, LLC
Make an Impact. Feel an Impact.