I've wanted to explore the word permission ever since Marki Costello asked this most relevant question on her episode of Camera Ready and Abel: Are you prepared to walk in the room and kick ass?

Why permission?

Because after you explore all the ways to prepare to kick ass like getting your talking points and marketing assets together, plus a cute outfit and flattering makeup, the salient question is:

Do you give yourself permission to walk in the room and kick ass?

Permission means to grant authorization or to give formal consent and it's key to your preparation. Depending on where and when you grew up, your gender, ethnicity, and lived experience, your gremlin may be popping up to shut you down.

No one can give you permission to carpe your diem except you. 

Repeat after me: I give myself permission to walk in the room and kick ass!

If it helps, remind yourself when you kick ass you're sharing your gifts - and that's helpful. You're providing something valuable that your audience needs. Hold onto that. Figure out the steps you need to take in order to prepare, and then give yourself permission to go after what you want.