In a recent LinkedIn post, Shulin Lee shares a powerful anecdote about overcoming self-doubt and the impact of a single piece of advice from entrepreneur Steven Bartlett. Lee recounts a nine-month journey from receiving critical guidance to finally being able to thank Bartlett in person for his impactful words.
The core of Lee’s post revolves around a conversation with Bartlett in September 2025. At the time, Lee expressed a desire to launch a second podcast but was paralyzed by overthinking and internal objections. Bartlett’s simple yet profound question, “Only do it if you can see yourself doing it for 10 years,” served as a catalyst for action.
“Only do it if you can see yourself doing it for 10 years.”
Lee explains how this single sentence cut through a barrage of self-imposed limitations. These included concerns about confusing the audience, complicating an existing successful venture, the perceived smallness of the Singapore market, and the lack of prior monetization experience. As Shulin Lee notes, these were all “logical. All wrong.” This perspective highlights the common tendency for individuals to get caught in the weeds of immediate obstacles rather than focusing on long-term commitment and vision.
The Impact of a Decade-Long Perspective
Shulin Lee’s article emphasizes the transformative power of adopting a long-term outlook when facing significant decisions. The advice from Steven Bartlett provided a framework to evaluate the viability and personal commitment required for the podcast project. By shifting the focus from short-term anxieties to a decade-long horizon, Lee was able to move past the internal resistance and launch “The Real Reason” podcast.
Lee writes about the personal satisfaction of sharing this update with Bartlett:
“Last night, I got to tell Steven his advice changed everything for me.”
Bartlett’s reaction, “That’s incredible. Congratulations,” underscores the significance of Lee’s perseverance and the profound effect his initial advice had. According to Shulin Lee, this one sentence, delivered nine months prior, continued to shape decision-making processes.
Challenging Internal Barriers
The post serves as a call to action for others facing similar internal struggles. Shulin Lee directly addresses those who are “sitting on something and the only thing stopping you is your own head.” The advice offered is a direct echo of Bartlett’s guidance: ask yourself if you can envision yourself committing to the endeavor for ten years.
The 10-Year Test
As Shulin Lee argues, if the answer to this question is affirmative, the next step is clear: “stop waiting.” This simple framework is designed to bypass the often-unproductive cycle of overthinking and self-doubt. It prioritizes passion, long-term commitment, and the potential for sustained impact over immediate, often unfounded, concerns.
The narrative concludes with acknowledgments to Standard Chartered Singapore, Lelian Chew, and Julia Wei for facilitating the meeting where Lee could share this moment of gratitude. Shulin Lee’s reflection on Bartlett’s advice powerfully illustrates how a concise, forward-looking perspective can be a powerful tool for unlocking potential and driving action.
In Shulin Lee’s view, the encounter was a testament to the enduring value of mentorship and the impact that thoughtful guidance can have, even when delivered in a single, potent sentence.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Shulin Lee on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on May 27, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →