Just Turn Up: The Power of Showing Up Every Day

Jul 24, 2024By Steven Vote
Steven Vote


The Simple Act That Leads to Success

It’s easy to overlook the power of simply showing up. Woody Allen famously said, “Eighty percent of success is showing up,” and this principle holds profound wisdom for our daily lives. By consistently turning up and giving our best, we can make significant strides toward personal and professional growth, even if the immediate results are not always visible.


Consider the daily routines that fill our lives. Whether it’s going to work, taking care of family responsibilities, or engaging in personal projects, our commitment to these tasks shapes our character and lays the foundation for future success. It’s the small, consistent efforts that accumulate over time, leading to substantial achievements.


One of the key elements of turning up is consistency. It’s easy to start something with enthusiasm, but maintaining that energy and dedication over time is where many people falter. By showing up every day, regardless of how we feel or how insignificant the task may seem, we build resilience and reliability. This consistency is not just about completing tasks but about cultivating a mindset that values perseverance and dedication.


Whether you are an entry-level employee or the CEO of a company, the principle of showing up with professionalism, diligence, and focus holds true. Each role, no matter where it falls on the organizational chart, carries its own set of responsibilities and opportunities. By turning up and doing your best in your role, you contribute to a culture of excellence and integrity. It's not about the paycheck or the title; it's about the commitment to doing your job well and honoring the responsibilities you’ve been entrusted with.


In the professional world, the principle of showing up can be a game-changer. Employees who consistently turn up on time, meet deadlines, and contribute positively to their teams are often the ones who advance in their careers. Their reliability and commitment make them invaluable assets to their organizations. Similarly, entrepreneurs who persist through challenges, showing up for their businesses every day, are more likely to succeed in the long run.


Turning up also has a profound impact on our personal lives. In relationships, being present and engaged with our loved ones strengthens bonds and fosters trust. It’s the daily acts of kindness, listening, and support that build strong, lasting relationships. By showing up for the people we care about, we demonstrate our commitment and love, creating a foundation of trust and mutual respect.


Furthermore, the practice of turning up extends to self-care and personal growth. Committing to daily routines such as exercise, meditation, or learning new skills contributes to our overall well-being and development. These small, consistent efforts accumulate over time, leading to significant improvements in our health, knowledge, and happiness.


Reflecting on the idea of turning up, it’s important to recognize that success is not always about the big wins but about the journey and the daily steps we take toward our goals. By valuing the process and the small achievements along the way, we cultivate a sense of fulfillment and purpose.


Here are a few practical steps to help you embrace the principle of turning up in your daily life:


1. Prioritize Consistency: Make a conscious effort to be consistent in your routines and responsibilities. Whether it’s in your work, relationships, or personal practices, show up every day with a committed heart.

2. Value the Small Things: Recognize the importance of small tasks. Approach each one with the same diligence and integrity as you would a larger responsibility.

3. Reflect Daily: Take a few moments at the end of each day to reflect on your actions. Consider where you were consistent and where you might improve. Use this time for personal growth and self-awareness.

4. Encourage Others: Be an example of reliability and dedication to those around you. Encourage friends, family, and colleagues to value and be diligent in their daily responsibilities.

5. Seek Accountability: Find a trusted friend or mentor to hold you accountable for your daily commitments. Share your struggles and successes with them regularly.


By committing to these practices, we can harness the power of simply turning up. It’s in these everyday actions that we build a life of integrity, reliability, and success. So, as you go about your daily routines, remember that showing up and giving your best, even in the smallest tasks, is a wonderful and impactful thing to do.

About the Author

Steven Alan Vote is the author of Fulfilled: Unlocking Passion, Purpose, and Joy in Your Life, a book that explores the journey to personal and professional fulfillment through science-backed wellness practices. An internationally recognized photographer, mentor, and the creator of photoSana.org, Steven has dedicated his career to promoting wellness and creativity.

His innovative program, photoSana, empowers individuals and organizations through proven techniques that nurture creativity, satisfaction, and purpose. For organizations, photoSana fosters a thriving corporate culture, enhances productivity, and improves workforce well-being. For individuals, photoSana uses creative and practical methods to unlock potential, overcome challenges, and achieve greater peace and happiness.

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