The Morning I Did Something Unthinkable.
You won’t believe what I was up to this morning.Yesterday, while on my way to work, I noticed something: the train was filled with Africans, Nigerians, professionals heading to work, each lost in their morning routine. I thought, Why not bring my business cards tomorrow and hand them out?
If you know me well, you know this is a big deal. I’m naturally quite shy and tend to stay in my lane, but something about that thought felt right. Maybe it was the book I had in my hand, Diary of a CEO by Steven Bartlett. I bought it in 2024, on my way to Edinburgh (I love collecting little keepsakes from everywhere I visit). I hadn’t really had time to read it until now, and as I flipped through the pages, one message stood out clearly:
You have to be able to sell yourself.
That was my sign.
How It Happened
So today, I did it. I got on the train with my business cards for OZ Events Ltd, took a deep breath, and started walking up to people. I began with the familiar faces, Africans, people who looked like me. I introduced myself, shared a smile, and handed out my card.
To my surprise, every single person I approached was kind, open, and welcoming. Some even shared about their businesses, their kids, and how we could support one another. We talked about raising children in the UK, about starting businesses from scratch, and the joy and stress that come with it all.
For someone who once hesitated to post consistently on Instagram, this was huge.
Lessons I Learned on the Train
Here’s what I learned from this little morning adventure:
1. You are your best marketing tool.
No one will know what you do if you don’t talk about it. You are your walking billboard.
2. Presentation matters.
I intentionally dressed casually today, in ripped jeans, a simple top, and comfy shoes. I didn’t want to look too corporate or intimidating. I wanted to look approachable. It worked.
3. Read the room.
Some mornings, the crowd may be quieter or less responsive. Other days, like today, you’ll meet people who want to talk, connect, and share ideas.
4. Start with what feels familiar.
I started by approaching Black people on the train because it felt easier and more natural. But moving forward, I’ll speak to everyone, regardless of background. Growth happens outside of comfort zones.
5. Celebrate your courage.
Because I did this, I’ve decided to treat myself this weekend, maybe a solo trip to Birmingham, maybe something spontaneous and fun. Courage deserves celebration.
What’s Next
Next time, I plan to start from Telford. The trains from there are busier and have even more commuters from different walks of life. My goal is to connect with at least three people every train ride to introduce myself, share what I do, and maybe collaborate.
A Little Call to Action (For You)
If you’re reading this and you’ve been sitting on an idea, waiting for the perfect time to start, this is your sign.
If you need to post that product, do it.
If you need to hand out that card, do it.
If you need to walk up to a stranger and introduce your business, do it.
The worst they’ll say is no.
And even that no is progress.
Because today, everyone I spoke to said yes.
Closing Thoughts
This morning reminded me that fear is often just excitement in disguise. Once you take the first step, the rest flows. I’m so proud of myself for doing this, for choosing growth over comfort.
If I, a shy event planner with a love for quiet train rides, can do this… You can too.
With love,
Ayo ♡
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