The first step is showing up

The idea of "showing up" sounds super simple. In fact, it's a deeply profound, important and often overlooked step of the journey from youth to young adult to adult.

What does it mean to "show up?" 

It might be attending class when you don't feel like it, or when the professor says they're not taking attendance. It might be meeting a friend for lunch even though now you're feeling anxious. It might be putting forth your best work at your job, even though you're exhausted.

If nobody has ever specifically talked to you about showing up, you might not understand how this seemingly simple action deserves recognition, positive attention and praise. Showing up is self-respect, integrity and personal responsibility. Every day you practice showing up is another step forward on the path to being an adult. That deserves a round of applause.

The first step in life is showing up.