Make It Happen: Surrendering Fear, Taking the Leap, and Living On Purpose
Lara Casey, the founder of Southern Weddings and Cultivate What Matters, brings her signature blend of grace, grit, and spiritual wisdom to “Make It Happen”. The book is not merely a collection of motivational platitudes; it’s a testament to her own journey of building a life she loves, one intentional step at a time. Through personal anecdotes, relatable struggles, and actionable advice, Casey guides readers through a transformative process, helping them identify their “big scary goals” and equip them with the tools to chase them down with courage and conviction.
At its core, “Make It Happen” is about understanding that living a purposeful life isn’t about having all the answers, but about taking faithful, consistent steps forward, even when the path is unclear. It’s about recognizing that fear is a natural part of the process, but it doesn’t have to be the dictator of our destiny. Casey empowers us to acknowledge our fears, surrender them, and then take the courageous leap towards the life we’re meant to live.
Part 1: The Foundation – Why We Don’t Make It Happen
Casey begins by laying the groundwork, delving into the common obstacles that prevent us from pursuing our dreams. She challenges us to look inward and identify the root causes of our inertia.
Chapter 1: The Lie We Believe
This chapter tackles the pervasive myth that we’re not enough, that we lack the necessary skills, resources, or talent to achieve our goals. Casey asserts that this lie is a formidable enemy, holding us captive in a cycle of self-doubt and inaction. She encourages us to deconstruct this lie, recognizing its falseness, and instead embrace the truth of our inherent worth and capabilities. It’s about shifting from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance and possibility.
Chapter 2: The Messy Middle
Here, Casey confronts the reality that life isn’t a straight line from aspiration to achievement. The “messy middle” is the often-uncomfortable space between where we are and where we want to be. It’s a period characterized by uncertainty, setbacks, and moments of wanting to give up. This chapter normalizes these struggles, assuring readers that the messy middle is an inevitable and even necessary part of any growth journey. The key, Casey emphasizes, is to persevere through it, embracing the lessons it offers rather than succumbing to its challenges.
Chapter 3: The Control Freak
This chapter addresses our innate desire for control, a desire that can often become a stumbling block. Casey argues that our need to meticulously plan every step and foresee every outcome can paralyze us from taking any action at all. She encourages us to release the illusion of control, acknowledging that while we can take intentional steps, the ultimate outcomes often lie beyond our grasp. This surrender, she suggests, is not a sign of weakness but an act of faith, allowing for greater peace and flexibility on our journey.
Part 2: The Process – How to Make It Happen
Having addressed the internal and external hurdles, Casey then transitions into the practical steps for moving forward. This section is rich with actionable advice and prompts for self-reflection.
Chapter 4: What Really Matters
This pivotal chapter urges readers to identify their core values and priorities. In a world constantly vying for our attention, it’s easy to get sidetracked by what society deems important. Casey encourages a deep dive into self-discovery, asking questions like: What truly lights you up? What impact do you want to make? What legacy do you want to leave? By clearly defining what truly matters, we create a compass that guides our decisions and actions, ensuring we invest our time and energy in pursuits that align with our authentic selves.
Chapter 5: Dreaming with Purpose
Beyond just wishful thinking, this chapter focuses on intentional dreaming. Casey distinguishes between fleeting desires and purposeful dreams – those that are aligned with our values and have the potential to bring about meaningful change. She encourages readers to articulate their dreams clearly, giving them form and substance, and to believe in their attainability. This isn’t about setting unrealistic expectations, but about fostering a vision that inspires and propels us forward.
Chapter 6: Taking Action (Small Steps)
The intimidating nature of large goals often leads to procrastination. Casey advocates for the power of small, consistent steps. This chapter breaks down the daunting task of “making it happen” into manageable increments. By focusing on tiny, daily actions, we build momentum, mitigate overwhelm, and gradually chip away at our larger objectives. It’s about progress over perfection, and recognizing that even the smallest step forward is still a step forward.
Chapter 7: Embracing the Process
This chapter reinforces the importance of enjoying the journey, not just fixating on the destination. Casey emphasizes that growth happens in the process, through the challenges, the learning, and the adjustments. She encourages readers to cultivate a mindset of curiosity and resilience, seeing setbacks not as failures but as opportunities for redirection and deeper understanding. It’s about finding joy in the effort, recognizing that the person we become through the pursuit of our goals is just as important as the achievement itself.
Chapter 8: Cultivating Community
No one achieves great things in isolation. This chapter highlights the vital role of community in our journey. Casey encourages readers to seek out supportive individuals who believe in their dreams, offer encouragement, and provide accountability. This could be a mentor, a mastermind group, or simply a trusted friend. Surrounding ourselves with a positive and uplifting community provides strength, perspective, and a sense of belonging, making the journey less lonely and more fulfilling.
Chapter 9: The Power of Little by Little
This chapter reiterates and expands on the concept of taking small steps, emphasizing the cumulative effect of consistent, deliberate effort. Casey beautifully illustrates how seemingly insignificant daily actions, when compounded over time, can lead to monumental achievements. It’s a powerful reminder that massive action isn’t always about grand gestures, but often about the quiet, persistent work done day in and day out. This chapter instills patience and encourages a long-term perspective.
Part 3: The Purpose – Living On Purpose
The final section of the book shifts focus from the mechanics of “making it happen” to the broader implications of living a life of purpose.
Chapter 10: Grace, Not Guilt
In a culture obsessed with achievement, it’s easy to fall into the trap of self-criticism and guilt when we fall short. Casey champions the concept of grace – for ourselves and for others. This chapter encourages self-compassion, recognizing that setbacks are inevitable and that progress is rarely linear. It’s about letting go of perfectionism and embracing imperfection, understanding that grace allows us to pick ourselves up, learn from our mistakes, and continue moving forward without being bogged down by unnecessary guilt.
Chapter 11: Growing Good Things
This chapter extends the concept of “cultivating what matters” to encompass the broader impact of our actions. Casey encourages readers to consider how their pursuits can benefit not only themselves but also their communities and the world around them. It’s about recognizing that our purpose is often intertwined with serving others, and that by growing “good things” – whether it’s a business, a project, or simply a more intentional way of living – we contribute to a ripple effect of positive change.
Chapter 12: Leaving a Legacy
The concluding chapter invites readers to think beyond immediate gratification and consider the long-term impact of their lives. Casey prompts us to reflect on the legacy we wish to leave behind – not just in terms of material possessions, but in the lives we touch, the values we embody, and the positive contributions we make to the world. This chapter inspires a deeper sense of purpose and encourages a life lived with intentionality and foresight.
The 5-Step Guide to “Make It Happen”
Woven throughout the book and often summarized in her practical tools, Lara Casey provides a clear, actionable framework for pursuing your goals. While the exact phrasing may vary slightly, the core principles can be distilled into these five essential steps:
1. Get Clear on What Matters (Your Why)
Before you can “make it happen,” you need to know what you’re trying to make happen and, more importantly, why. This step involves deep introspection. What are your core values? What truly lights you up? What impact do you want to make? What are your biggest dreams, not just fleeting wishes? This clarity acts as your compass, guiding all subsequent decisions. Without a strong “why,” motivation can wane when challenges arise.
2. Dream Big, Then Break It Down (Vision & Small Steps)
Once you’re clear on your “what,” allow yourself to dream big. Don’t limit yourself by perceived limitations. Visualize your ideal outcome. Then, and this is crucial, break that big dream down into small, actionable steps. This is where the power of “little by little” comes into play. What is the very first, smallest step you can take today? And then tomorrow? This prevents overwhelm and builds momentum.
3. Take Action Consistently (Show Up!)
This is where the rubber meets the road. Dreams remain dreams without consistent action. Casey emphasizes the importance of showing up, even when you don’t feel like it. It’s about building habits and discipline around your goals. This doesn’t mean perfect action every day, but rather a commitment to making progress, however small, on a regular basis. Consistency trumps intensity in the long run.
4. Cultivate What Matters (Nourish Your Progress)
This step involves intentionally nurturing your journey. It’s about actively choosing to grow the good things in your life and minimize the distractions or negativity. This could mean cultivating positive relationships, practicing self-care, learning new skills, or simplifying your schedule to create space for what’s important. It’s about creating an environment that supports your growth and allows your dreams to flourish.
5. Let Go of Control & Embrace Imperfection (Grace & Trust)
This is perhaps one of the most liberating steps. Casey encourages us to surrender our need for perfect control over every outcome. Life is messy, and setbacks will happen. Instead of being derailed by imperfections or unexpected turns, embrace them as part of the process. Extend grace to yourself, learn from what happens, and trust that even when things don’t go exactly as planned, there’s still a path forward. This step frees you from the paralysis of perfectionism and allows for greater resilience.
The Author’s Core Message and Teaching
Lara Casey’s overarching message in “Make It Happen” is profound in its simplicity and powerful in its impact: You are capable of making your biggest dreams a reality, not through sheer willpower or flawless execution, but through a unique blend of intentional action, surrendered trust, and a deep understanding of what truly matters to you.
Here are the key teachings and messages she conveys:
Purpose over Perfection
This is a recurring theme. Casey continually reminds us that the goal isn’t to be perfect, but to live a life aligned with our purpose. This liberates us from the debilitating grip of perfectionism, allowing us to take imperfect action and learn along the way.
Fear is a Catalyst, Not a Roadblock
She doesn’t suggest that fear will magically disappear. Instead, she teaches us to acknowledge it, understand its roots, and then choose to surrender its power over us. Fear can actually be a sign that we’re stepping outside our comfort zone, which is where true growth happens.
The Power of Small, Consistent Steps
This is arguably the most practical and impactful teaching. By breaking down large, daunting goals into tiny, manageable actions, Casey demystifies the process of achievement. She shows that significant progress is the result of consistent, incremental effort, not sudden leaps of faith.
Cultivate What Matters, Eliminate the Rest
Her message is deeply rooted in the concept of intentional living. She urges readers to identify their true priorities and then actively cultivate those areas of their lives, while strategically pruning away anything that doesn’t serve their purpose.
Grace and Self-Compassion are Essential
In a world that often demands relentless striving, Casey offers a refreshing emphasis on self-grace. She reminds us that setbacks are inevitable, and how we respond to them – with kindness and understanding rather than harsh self-criticism – dictates our ability to persevere.
Community and Support are Vital
The journey of “making it happen” is not meant to be walked alone. Casey underscores the importance of surrounding ourselves with supportive people who believe in us, offer encouragement, and provide accountability.
God’s Role in Our Purpose
While the book is broadly applicable, Casey, as a Christian author, weaves in her faith seamlessly. She suggests that our purpose is often intertwined with a higher calling and that surrendering control to God can bring peace and clarity to the process. Even for those without a religious affiliation, this can be interpreted as trusting in the process, the universe, or a greater good.
The Journey is as Important as the Destination
She emphasizes that the person we become through the pursuit of our goals, the lessons we learn, and the character we build are just as valuable, if not more so, than the achievement itself.
Legacy Over Immediate Gratification
Casey encourages a long-term perspective, prompting readers to consider the lasting impact of their lives and choices. This shifts the focus from short-term desires to a deeper sense of meaning and purpose.
In essence, Lara Casey’s “Make It Happen” is a compassionate yet compelling call to action. It’s a reminder that our lives are not meant to be lived on autopilot, but with intention, courage, and a willingness to embrace the beautiful, messy process of growth. By surrendering our fears, taking consistent leaps of faith, and staying true to what truly matters, we can indeed, “Make It Happen.” This book is a valuable resource for anyone feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply seeking a more purposeful and fulfilling life, offering a roadmap to navigate the complexities of ambition with grace and unwavering hope.
FAQs
Q1: Is “Make it Happen” only for Christian readers?
A: While it has a Christian foundation, its core messages on fear, purpose, and intentional living are universal.
Q2: Is this book good for people in career transitions?
A: Absolutely. It helps you realign your life with what truly matters, whether in career, family, or personal growth.
Q3: Are there exercises or activities included?
A: Yes! Journaling prompts, reflection questions, and action steps are sprinkled throughout.
Q4: Can this book help with goal setting?
A: Yes. Lara’s goal-setting method is faith-based and focuses on long-term, meaningful progress.
Q5: Is this suitable for younger readers or teens?
A: While it’s geared toward adults, mature teens navigating purpose and fear will also benefit.
