Did you know that 92% of people never follow through on their big ideas? The difference between success and regret often comes down to one decision: taking action.

Every video creator, entrepreneur, and storyteller has that one idea—the one they keep waiting to act on. Maybe it’s a short film, a brand story, or a documentary, but something always holds you back. You tell yourself, "I'll do it when the timing is right." But here’s the truth: there is no perfect time.

Waiting won’t prepare you. Action will. Think about it—how many times have you held back on an idea, waiting for the right moment? The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t often comes down to one thing: they take action before they feel ready.

Let me tell you a story about two brothers, their father’s invention, and a life-changing lesson in taking the shot.

The Legacy Shave Story: Don’t Wait. Take the Shot.

A few years ago, two brothers, Dave and Mike, stepped onto the Shark Tank stage with a deeply personal mission. Their product, Legacy Shave, wasn’t just any invention—it was their late father’s dream.

He had spent decades working on a simple yet brilliant idea: a shaving brush built directly into an aerosol can of shaving cream. It was designed to give a smoother, cleaner shave while reducing mess—a practical improvement on a daily routine.

When their father passed away from cancer, Dave and Mike went down to clean out his basement workshop. They expected to find a handful of prototypes. Instead, they discovered something astonishing: 3,000 fully assembled shave brushes.

Their father had quietly built them, one by one, during his chemo treatments.

But what hit them hardest wasn’t the prototypes. It was a small sticky note he had left behind. A message that reached beyond the grave:

“Don’t wait. Life’s short. Take the shot.”

In that moment, they knew—they had to do this. Not just for themselves, but to honor their father’s legacy.

And so they did. They took the shot.

My Own ‘Take the Shot’ Moment

Early in my career, I was offered a project that felt way beyond my experience level. The budget was big. The expectations were high. And the self-doubt was even higher.

I wasn’t "ready." But waiting wouldn’t make me any more prepared.

So I took the shot.

I stumbled. I made mistakes. But those lessons shaped me. That project became a launchpad to bigger opportunities, and looking back, none of it would have happened if I had let fear hold me back.

What About You?

Maybe you have a great idea—a story you’re passionate about telling—but you’re waiting for the ‘right time.’

Let me be straight with you: there’s never a perfect time.

Momentum comes from action, not from waiting. How many video creators hesitate to start their first project, thinking they need better gear, more experience, or the perfect script? The truth is, taking that first step—imperfect as it may be—is what builds confidence and skill.

Just like Legacy Shave. Just like my career. Just like yours.

3 Lessons for Every Video Creator

Here’s how the idea of taking the shot applies to your creative business:

✅ 1. Take Imperfect Action—Perfection is the Enemy of Progress.

Legacy Shave didn’t wait until everything was perfect. They moved forward with what they had. As a video creator, you need to do the same.

•  Don’t wait until you have the perfect camera. Start with what you have.
•  Don’t hold off on launching your business because you don’t feel "ready."
•  The only way to improve is by doing, failing, and learning.

✅ 2. Storytelling Creates Impact—Your Audience Connects with Emotion.

Great storytelling isn’t just about what happens—it’s about how it makes people feel. A well-crafted narrative has the power to inspire action, build trust, and create a lasting impression. When you tell a compelling story, you’re not just selling a product or an idea—you’re inviting your audience into an experience.

•  Use emotion to make your story unforgettable.
•  Frame your message with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
•  Show, don’t just tell—bring your audience into the moment with vivid details and relatable characters.

Legacy Shave’s success wasn’t just about the product. It was about the story. A father’s dream. Two sons. A powerful message.

Your storytelling matters just as much as your visuals. Whether you’re pitching a client, selling a service, or creating content—story is what resonates.

✅ 3. Your Business Needs Visibility—Opportunities Come from Exposure.

Your work won’t create impact if no one sees it. The biggest advantage you can give yourself as a video creator is consistent visibility. Whether it’s through social media, networking events, or direct outreach, putting yourself out there increases your chances of landing the right opportunities.

•  Post your work regularly on platforms where your audience spends time.
•  Connect with industry professionals and fellow creators to build relationships.
•  Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you—create them by pitching, sharing, and showing up consistently.

Legacy Shave saw their opportunity on Shark Tank and took it. Your version of Shark Tank might be different—it could be putting your work on YouTube, networking at an event, or pitching a client. But the principle is the same:

•  Share your work. Don’t keep your ideas hidden.
•  Find platforms that give your business exposure.
•  Be ready when the opportunity comes.

Your Next Step: Take the Shot

Here’s the thing: sometimes, the only difference between success and staying stuck is having the right guidance.

That’s why I offer Next Level 1:1 Coaching—to help video creators and storytellers like you build confidence, develop strategy, and scale their creative business.

If you’re ready to stop waiting and start taking action, book a free 15-minute introductory call at paulstevenforrest.com.

Let’s take your shot together.

Final Takeaway: You Miss Every Shot You Don’t Take

Before we wrap up, let’s recap:

📌 Stop waiting for the perfect moment. Studies show that 70% of people have a creative idea they never act on. The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t? They take the shot. Action creates momentum.
📌 Leverage storytelling. Your message matters as much as your visuals. A compelling story draws people in, keeps them engaged, and makes your work memorable. Whether you're crafting a video, pitching a project, or building your brand, storytelling is your secret weapon. Use emotion, structure, and authenticity to connect with your audience and inspire action. Your message matters as much as your visuals.
📌 Get your work out there. Visibility leads to opportunity. The best ideas won’t make an impact if they stay hidden. Share your work consistently—on social media, at networking events, and with potential clients. Position yourself where the right people can see your talent, and don't be afraid to create opportunities instead of waiting for them to come to you. Visibility leads to opportunity.

Dave and Mike at Legacy Shave didn’t wait. They took the shot—and it changed everything.

Now it’s your turn. Take that idea. Take that risk. See where it leads.

Because life’s short. Don’t let hesitation hold you back—start today, take action, and make your vision a reality.

Take the shot.