There’s a social script we’ve all learned: don’t come on too strong. Whether it’s personal relationships or professional aspirations, we’re often taught to “play it cool.”

Instead of saying, “I want to work with you” or “I’d love for us to be friends,” we hold back. We hope subtle signals and indirect actions will communicate our desires for us and eventually lead to the outcome we want. But what if following this social protocol hurts more than it helps us?

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The Cost of Playing It Cool

When we suppress our enthusiasm and avoid being direct, we lose valuable opportunities. Instead of direction, we’re left with ambiguity, overthinking, and missed chances. We also waste energy pretending to feel less than we do just to maintain an illusion of “coolness.”

This hesitation stems from fear: fear of rejection, fear of looking too eager, and fear of vulnerability. It’s the discomfort of exposing our true feelings and risking an outcome that doesn’t go our way. Ironically, this fear keeps us stuck in a cycle of second-guessing, which prevents us from taking the leaps that could lead to what we actually want.

Making 2025 the Year of Enthusiasm

This year, it’s time to leave behind the endless “will they/won’t they” dance. Let’s embrace our enthusiasm and approach life with unapologetic directness.

Here’s what that looks like:

1. Say What You Mean​
   Instead of hinting, be clear about your intentions. Whether it’s telling someone you admire their work or expressing interest in a collaboration, be straightforward. Clarity saves time and builds mutual understanding.
2. Drop the Fear of Rejection​
   Not everyone will match your energy, and that’s okay. Some will shy away from your enthusiasm, preferring the comfort of ambiguity. But those aren’t your people right now. This year, make room for the connections that thrive on clarity, authenticity, and mutual excitement.
3. Focus on Alignment​
   Directness helps reveal whether your needs and wants align with someone else’s. If they do, you can move forward together. If not, you can let go and redirect your energy toward more meaningful connections.
4. Celebrate Vulnerability​
   Sharing what excites you or what you want is a courageous act. It signals confidence and self-awareness, which attract like-minded people and opportunities. This year, I’m counting it as a win if I was direct in what I wanted (even if it didn’t happen).

Let’s Be Bold

This is your sign to stop relying on unspoken signals to do the work for you. Don't let this be another year of opportunities slipping by and connections remaining unmade. Holding back doesn’t serve you in the long run.

Life goes by fast. Let’s stop putting a lid on our excitement. This year, let’s choose to be bold.

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TLDR

Playing it cool often leads to missed opportunities.

Stop wasting time holding back and let your excitement lead the way to authentic connections and growth.

In 2025, embrace enthusiasm and say what you want.

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Work Forward Society Want to meet others who do work differently? Join us in making 2025 your year of less meetings and more real work! Join The Work Forward Society →

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What did you think of this issue? What do you hope to see in the next one? Hit reply and let me know. I read every response. I truly appreciate you taking the time to read this. Hope you have a lovely day! Marissa ​Founder, Remote Work Prep​ P.S. Did you enjoy this issue? Share the article with a friend. Struggling with a remote work problem? Book a coaching call. If you liked this, consider supporting this free newsletter by leaving a testimonial. ​

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