You don’t need permission. You need to act.

Hugh MacLeod, Gaping Void Gallery, is a “poke-you-till-it-hurt-but-then-find-relief-in-the-absurdity-of-life” cartoonist. He has become one of my favorites of all time. His language is colorful at times, and not appropriate for all audiences, but his ability to capture and say the things we never want to say, or rarely give ourselves permission to act on, makes him a master philosopher.

(If he’s reading this I’m sure he’s cringing at all the hyperbole. But, Hugh, I mean it. [superemotions file="icon_cool.gif" title="Cool"] )

Hugh has graciously given me permission to share his cartoons before, and I do so with every intention that you will click through to his site, sign up for his newsletter, and maybe buy a lithograph or two. (I don’t receive any commission, just the fun of knowing I’m helping spread the word.)

This is a business card he created for Pam Slim, author of Escape From Cubicle Nation. (That’s her book on the right.)

It captures the essence of what holds many of us back from really making a difference in the world, and in our own lives – the thought that we need permission.

Permission to think we’re worthy. Permission to think we’re good enough. Permission to think our ideas will actually make a difference. Permission to risk being different. Permission to be successful – whatever that means to you individually.

Permission to be a Princess, even.

Thanks, Hugh. As always, you are a gem.