Click HERE to watch:

The Best Advice You’re Not Taking. Lessons from Ed Burns.
How Going From Imperfection to Taking Action Can Transform Your Career and Business

The Best Advice You’re Not Taking

Ed Burns Learned the Hard Way, And You Might Too

I was reading an interview with actor and producer Ed Burns, and one thing he said jumped out at me. Reflecting on his career, Burns admitted he was overly cautious after Saving Private Ryan, turning down roles because he wanted to make the “right” next step.

The Value of Every Opportunity

Looking back, he regrets some of those decisions, not because he missed out on an Oscar-winning performance, but because he passed on solid opportunities that would have kept him working, learning, and earning money. Even though he’d been told, he didn’t turn advice to action.

His takeaway? Don’t be so precious. Turn advice to action. No one is keeping score.

That hit me like a ton of bricks. I’ve seen the same thing play out in business, branding, and life, including my own.

Learning from Ed Burns: When Caution Costs You Opportunity

But first, a story…

Years ago, a potential client called me with an opportunity. They were launching a new product and wanted my help developing their messaging. But there was a catch: the budget wasn’t great, the timeline was tight, and the project didn’t seem like it would add much prestige to my portfolio.

Worse, I didn’t think it would be a creative challenge. It didn’t seem artistically fulfilling, and I told myself I only wanted to work on projects that pushed me.

So I passed.

A few months later, I was at an event and someone mentioned that this client had brought in another designer to help them nail their brand positioning. That designer was now their go-to expert, handling their messaging and marketing strategy across multiple product lines.

I thought I had said no to what I assumed would be an uninspiring job. But I really said no to a long-term relationship, steady work, and the chance to become indispensable to a growing company. I didn’t turn advice to action.

I had been too precious. And just like Burns, I had assumed someone was keeping score.

Nobody Remembers Your Wrong Turns—Only Your Momentum

We all want to make the “right” next move. We analyze, overthink, and sometimes stall out completely because we fear making the wrong choice. But what if the real mistake isn’t making the wrong move but making no move at all?

The truth is, nobody remembers your minor missteps. They remember your consistency, experience, and ability to show up and get the job done.

Reflecting on Career Decisions

Burns realized that even the bad projects had value. They taught him what to do and what not to do. They connected him with good people. They put money in his bank account. And in the end, they kept him moving forward.

The same applies to all of us. If you’re waiting for the perfect gig, moment, or opportunity, you might be waiting forever.

Instead, take your shot. Do the work. Turn advice to action. Keep moving.

Embracing Imperfection and Taking Action

Make 2025 Your Year of Momentum

In my work, I help brands, businesses, and leaders craft messaging that moves people to action. As a keynote speaker, I share the strategies that help organizations build momentum, stand out, and succeed.

If you want to make sure your team isn’t getting stuck waiting for the “perfect” move, let’s talk. I keynote at corporate conferences and association events worldwide, and I still have a few dates open for 2025.

But don’t wait. No one is keeping score.