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Moxie on Monday

Moxie on Monday: Take Center Stage

Stop playing the supporting role in your own life

By Catherine Grace O’Connell March 3, 2025

A woman in a black and leopard print outfit takes center stage at FierceCon, speaking into a microphone beside a sign with multiple logos.

Are you ready to expand your imagination beyond anything you’ve ever done before?

Shakespeare famously said, “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.” Yet too often, we let others take center stage while we play a supporting role in our own story. It’s time to rewrite the script, step into the spotlight, and become the main character of your own wild and precious life.

I grew up in a family of actors. My mother was an actress. My daughter is an actress in Hollywood — she practically came straight out of the womb and onto the stage, starring in musical theater productions by age 4. Those talents completely bypassed me. I was far more comfortable backstage, behind the scenes. It took a life-threatening illness and a near-death experience to shake me awake. At 55, I finally shifted into “Main Character Energy.” I may be a late bloomer, but today, I find myself comfortable at center stage, playing the starring role I was always meant to play.

Imagine your life as a grand theater production. You, my dear, are both the playwright and the star. Being the main character means showing up as your authentic self, unapologetically owning your story, and surrounding yourself with those who cheer you on. It’s about taking the lead and living life on your terms. Here’s how:

Own Your Story

Every main character has a unique story. It’s a hero’s journey, and you’re the hero. Embrace your past, including the messy chapters — they’ve shaped the person you are today. Own your narrative with pride and be confident in the choices that brought you here. Your life is a masterpiece in progress, and you are the artiste.

Fill the Front Row with Cheerleaders

The people in the front row matter. Surround yourself with those who lift you up, support your dreams, and celebrate your successes. Let go of anyone who brings negativity or tries to steal the spotlight. You deserve an audience filled with love, positivity, and unwavering support.

Take Center Stage

Stop playing small. Speak up, share your opinions, and go for what you want. The main character doesn’t wait for permission or linger in the background. Step into the spotlight and express who you are — even when it feels uncomfortable. Especially when it feels uncomfortable!

Flip the Script

You have the power to change your story at any moment. If you’ve been playing a role that no longer serves you, it’s time for a rewrite. Let go of limiting beliefs and self-doubt. Craft a script filled with confidence, courage, and possibility. And don’t be afraid to improvise.

Embrace Radical Positivity

The main character knows life is a rollercoaster of ups and downs. By embracing radical positivity, you face challenges with resilience and an unshakable belief in your ability to overcome. Focus on the good, practice gratitude, and find the silver linings in every situation.

As we grow older, we feel the pull to become who we’re meant to be — to take the lead in our own story. So, take a deep breath, stand tall, and let your inner light shine. The world is waiting for you. The time is now.

The best productions are the ones where the main character rises to make the performance unforgettable. I’ll be right here, cheering you on from the front row.

About Moxie on Monday

Catherine Grace O’Connell is chief executive cat-alyst of her female-focused digital media agency MODLife Media and an expert on becoming ageless in mind, body, and spirit. She has more than 30 years of study and experience in natural wellness, mindfulness, meditation and fitness. She is also the founder of Ageless In Seattle, a heart-centered community for women of all ages. You can follow her on her website CatherineGraceO, Instagram @catherinegraceo, and Tiktok @catherinegraceo

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