In a recent LinkedIn post, Heather Monahan discusses the common trap many professionals fall into: waiting for external validation and permission instead of taking proactive steps towards their goals. Monahan argues that this waiting game, often fueled by a lack of confidence or a belief that one needs to be chosen, is a self-imposed barrier.
The Illusion of Being Trapped
Monahan challenges the notion that individuals are truly held back by external forces. She posits that the primary obstacle is often internal – a prolonged period of waiting for the ‘right time,’ for confidence to magically appear, or for others to grant permission. According to Monahan, the key to unlocking progress lies solely with the individual.
“Most of us aren’t trapped. We just spend years waiting. 😳 Waiting to feel ready. Waiting to be chosen. Waiting to feel confident. Waiting for permission. Waiting to be ready.”
She elaborates on this by stating, “Nobody was holding me back. I was just waiting to be noticed.” This highlights a personal realization that external recognition was not the driving force behind her own progress, but rather a consequence of her own actions and visibility.
Performance and Visibility: A Crucial Distinction
A key insight Monahan shares is the distinction between performance and visibility. While strong performance might earn an individual a place in the room, it is visibility that dictates their influence and opportunities once they are there. Monahan emphasizes that this is a critical understanding for anyone seeking career advancement.
The Role of Visibility
Monahan points out that talent alone is often not enough. She asks her audience if they have witnessed capable individuals being overlooked due to a lack of visibility, a phenomenon she humorously terms “golden handcuffs.” This suggests that even strong results can be overshadowed if not accompanied by strategic self-promotion and presence.
“Performance gets you in the room. Visibility determines what happens once you’re there 🔥”
The core message is that taking action, even a small step, can initiate momentum. Monahan encourages readers to recognize that the permission they seek is internal.
Taking the First Step
Monahan advocates for a mindset shift, suggesting that the change needed is often a matter of “different attitude” rather than a complete overhaul. She believes that individuals possess the power to grant themselves permission to act and to be seen.
“You’ve just been waiting for permission that was never coming from anyone but you.”
To assist those who feel stuck between their results and their reputation, Monahan offers a free assessment. This initiative stems from a personal need she experienced in the past, indicating a desire to provide the tools she wished she had earlier in her career.
“I built something for you I needed 10 years ago.”
Ultimately, Monahan’s message is one of empowerment, urging professionals to break free from self-imposed limitations and to actively cultivate both their performance and their visibility to achieve their full potential.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Heather Monahan on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on July 30, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →