Timing is everything… or is it?

Knowing when to make an ask can feel like trying to predict the weather. We overthink it, wait for the "perfect moment," and often end up waiting forever. Then what happens?

[Insert excuse here.]

"It's too late now."

Sometimes, asking before it feels "right" works out in magical ways.

When Richard asked me to write a book with him, it was super early in our friendship. By most standards, way too soon. 

But what he didn’t know?

It had been my secret dream to write a book. I actually noted in my high school yearbook my goal of becoming a "famous author." Okay, I'm not famous, but we've written lots of books! 😏

So, his early ask wasn’t bad timing. It was perfect timing for me. 

And it changed both of our lives.

This raises a huge truth:

You never know what’s happening on the other side of your ask.

• That person might be waiting for your opportunity.
• They might be dreaming of exactly what you’re offering.
• Or they might say No—but even that can lead to new paths.

How do you know when to ask?

• Trust your gut. If the idea pops into your head, it might be time.
• Check your fear. If you’re holding back out of fear of rejection, not actual bad timing, that’s your sign to ask.
• Consider their world. Is this moment about them or just about you trying to get the "perfect" outcome? You can’t fully control timing. But you can control whether you take the chance or let fear stop you.

The right time to ask might be sooner than you think.