While variations of this quote have existed for centuries, Grace Murray Hopper is considered to popularize this iconic sentiment. In the early 1950s, Hopper invented the first computer program to translate codes into machine language. In doing so, she broke both the social and technological norms of her day. Hopper's words speak to a common barrier holding many people back for their own dreams--- the fear of what others think.

Maybe you'll consider a career change or perhaps you want to develop a new creative idea. It can be tempting to ask others to validate these ambitions so that you feel better about them before you begin. But first ask yourself whether you even need to do so, will it ultimately help or hinder your contribution to the world? In areas where you have unique passion and foresight, others might only see practical issues and uncertainty. Sometimes the only way to prove something as possible is simply by taking those first steps on your own. 

So as you approach today, ask yourself what you've been waiting for approval to do, then give yourself permission to go out and prove it.