Count Your Wins and Be the Main Character in Your Own Life

You know that feeling when you’re walking your dog and life just clicks? That happened to me today. Ava and I were out on our usual stroll, one earphone each, sharing the Wicked soundtrack for the 18th time (yes, 18th today). And suddenly, she started dancing and singing like no one was watching. Actually, scratch that—I’m pretty sure she believed she was Glinda in that moment. Full transformation. Main character vibes everywhere.

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And you know what? She wasn’t wrong. It hit me right then: she’s living life like she owns it. Not caring who’s watching, not worrying about looking silly. Just unapologetically starring in her own show.

Starring in Her Show… and Mine

Now, Wicked has two witches, right? Ava gave me the perfect opportunity to join her scene. So I did. We danced, sang, ran down the path like cameras were rolling and paparazzi were lurking behind the bushes. It felt incredible. In that moment, I wasn’t just Ava’s mum. I was her co-star. And for once, I wasn’t a background character in my own story either.

From Backup Singer to Main Character

Here’s the thing: I’ve spent years living for other people. And don’t get me wrong, I love being a mum and a wife. It’s a huge part of who I am. But somewhere along the way, I realized I needed to show up for me too.

Twelve months ago, I started learning affiliate marketing—for me. I joined a community, and while I used to just catch the replays, now I show up live for the training every week—because I want to. I’ve worked on my TikTok strategy—for me. I’ve written these blogs—for me. And guess what? It’s paying off.

The Iceberg Effect

It all started with a book called The Iceberg Effect. I picked it up on a whim and devoured it during a road trip. That book opened my eyes to what was possible when you invest in yourself. Fast forward a year, and here I am—dancing down the street with my daughter, heading to New York at Christmas, and feeling like the popstar in my own life.

Your Time to Shine

So if you’re reading this and thinking, “Yep, I’m definitely a backup singer in my own life,” consider this your sign. It’s time to step into the spotlight. Start doing things that make you happy, healthy, and fulfilled.

  • Always wanted to try a new hobby? Do it.
  • Thinking about starting a side hustle? Go for it.
  • Dreaming of traveling the world? Make a plan.

And if you’re curious about how I’ve turned my passions into a paycheck, check out these resources that have helped me along the way:

Be the Main Character

Don’t let life pass you by while you’re busy harmonizing in the background. Take center stage. Dance down the street. Sing at the top of your lungs. Write your own script. Because life isn’t just about being there for others—it’s also about showing up for yourself.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a Wicked soundtrack to play for the 19th time. Who’s joining my duet?

14 thoughts on “Count Your Wins and Be the Main Character in Your Own Life

  1. Sarah,
    This is a beautiful, inspiring post! I love your daughter. She sounds so spunky and spirited, and I love to see how she inspires you. I’ve experienced the transformation in my side hustle, going from having to loving it as well. It’s so much fun to see what’s happening next. Looking forward to your next post!
    Nakina

    1. I think we have a fab future ahead and 2025 is going to be our year. Ava is brilliant and I hope she stays like this….. I worry I’m creating a monster and then there are these moments that remind me she’s 10 and she teaches me to see life through her eyes sometimes

  2. Sarah, This post really made me think about my own journey and how I’ve shifted from supporting roles to taking the lead in my life. Like you, I’ve started carving out time to work on things that truly matter to me, like building my affiliate marketing business and focusing on my health. It’s not always easy, but those moments when I show up for myself feel incredibly rewarding. Your story about dancing with Ava reminds me how important it is to find joy in the little things and not worry about what others think. Here’s to embracing the main character energy and living life unapologetically! Atif

  3. Hi Sarah! – I absolutely loved this post and the theme of not only being a character in your life but the main character. What a concept that we often forget that we are the main part of who we are even though we are parts of other people. I do love being a husband, a father, a grandfather, a friend, etc. But I also like being me and sometimes I forget that. The experience you’re shared with us about your dance with your girl is a priceless memory for the both of you and one that I know you will cherish! Thank you for sharing that moment with us. You have also motivated me to finally break down and watch that movie. It’s not that I don’t want to watch it, it’s that I just haven’t found the time to either go to the theater or download it to my TV. I just got to see it now! Enjoy your weekend and enjoy being the main character!

    1. Watch with caution! I’ll send Ava over, so that you can have the full experience! You’ll certainly love the film but you will need a quiet room after it!

  4. What a wonderful pep talk, Sarah! I am very often the backup singer in my own life because I used to think that was my place where I could be most effective. But I am just now coming around to the idea of writing my own script and taking center stage.

    I do thank you for being a subscribed reader of mine and you get a closer look at what I am up to. And I look forward to seeing more of this Wicked life you lead!
    Robert Klein recently posted…Meta Instant Form before the AdMy Profile

    1. I always thought it was my place too- Supporting others! I’m so glad I am now writing my own script and being the main character in my own life- I’d really recommend

  5. I absolutely love this post! 🙌 Ava sounds like the perfect little reminder to live in the moment and not worry about what anyone thinks. Her “Glinda” vibes are contagious, and I think we could all use a bit of that energy in our own lives. It’s so refreshing to read how you’ve not only embraced the role of “main character” in your story, but you’re also taking bold steps toward building something just for you. Affiliate marketing, TikTok, blogging—these are all huge moves that require a lot of heart and hustle, and it’s inspiring to see you thriving!

    1. Being 10 must be amazing. She is certainly living her best life. It is crazy what a year makes, and I’m so proud of myself for taking more control back. I’s encourage anyone to do the same x

  6. I am striving to make dancing a daily part of my life. The act of dancing helps to connect to others and a higher vision of what is possible in life. The exhilaration is liberating. I just read about a man who fell in love with a woman, and soon after she was diagnosed with a lethal form of cancer. They both danced every day and visualized the healing that comes from that simple act of expression. They did other things for her healing, but they do attribute Dancing to be the one thing that put her cancer into remission. I could say more, but there’s nothing more to say!
    Kate Loving Shenk recently posted…Healing Through Light: Finding Strength in WoundsMy Profile

    1. You should! I really enjoy it. I’m sure I don’t look as cool as I think I do but I love having a little dance in the kitchen when I cook. I’m so pleased the lady is ok now. x

  7. Hi Sarah,
    I love this so much! It’s such a beautiful reminder to step into the spotlight and live life for yourself too. Dancing, singing, and being fully present, those are the moments that make life special. Thank you for sharing your journey and inspiring others to take charge of their story.
    Also, Ava sounds like an absolute superstar, Glinda would be proud! 😊
    Meredith
    Meredith Moore recently posted…How to Grow and Monetize on TikTok: Lessons from My BootcampMy Profile

  8. Hi Sarah,
    I absolutely loved reading your post! What a beautiful reminder to embrace our individuality and take center stage in our own lives. Your story about dancing with Ava and feeling like Glinda and Elphaba is such a fun depiction of living fully and unapologetically.

    It’s inspiring to see how you’ve taken steps to prioritize yourself, from learning affiliate marketing to actively participating in your community. I can relate to that journey of transitioning from supporting roles to becoming the main character. Your passion and enthusiasm shine through, especially in your commitment to your goals and dreams.

    I’m excited for you as you continue to explore new hobbies and ventures while leading a fulfilled life.

    And yes, count me in for the duet! Your energy is contagious, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes you. Here’s to dancing down the street and living out our dreams!

    Cheers!
    Ezequiel

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