Justin Welsh on Building Leverage by Sharing Knowledge, Not Waiting for Permission

In a recent LinkedIn post, Justin Welsh discusses the common tendency for individuals to seek external validation or permission before pursuing their own ventures or sharing their expertise. Welsh argues that this mindset is a significant barrier to personal and professional growth, particularly for those looking to build a life independent of a single employer.

Welsh highlights the paradox of waiting for permission, stating:

“A lot of smart people are waiting for permission to build a better life. Permission from their boss. Permission from their company. Permission from the market.”

According to Welsh, this reliance on external approval prevents many from leveraging their existing knowledge and skills. He points out that successful online creators often simply decide their insights are valuable and begin sharing them, rather than waiting for an opportune moment or endorsement.

The Power of Proactive Sharing

Justin Welsh emphasizes that the journey of sharing one’s knowledge online is often met with initial silence, a phase he believes many people struggle to endure. This period, while seemingly unproductive, is crucial for establishing oneself and building an audience. Welsh notes the internal struggles people face during this time:

“Because it’s awkward to be early. It’s uncomfortable to know people are watching. And it’s easy to convince yourself that you’re too busy, too late, too old, too niche, or too far behind. It’s all excuses.”

He contends that persistence through this initial phase is key. As individuals continue to share their expertise, they begin to be recognized for solving specific problems. This recognition, Welsh explains, naturally leads to deeper engagement, where people seek help, ask more probing questions, and eventually inquire about the cost of such expertise.

From Paycheck to Internet Leverage

The core of Welsh’s argument centers on the transformation of one’s knowledge from a mere component of an employer’s business to a powerful asset—what he terms “total internet leverage.” This shift, in his view, is not about seeking fame or becoming an influencer, but about refusing to keep valuable skills hidden within another company’s structure.

Welsh encourages readers to consider the opportunity that lies in utilizing their inherent abilities. He writes:

“It’s about not hiding the things you’re already good at inside of someone else’s business.”

For those aiming to build a career where their knowledge’s worth isn’t dictated by a single company, Welsh suggests a consistent approach to sharing insights. He advocates for sharing valuable content regularly, noting that this consistent effort builds credibility and opens doors to new opportunities. The ultimate goal, as presented by Welsh, is to create a sustainable path where one’s expertise becomes a direct source of value and independence.