If You Find 3 Things You Can Do on That Job Description, Apply Anyway.

Lately, I’ve been thinking about how many doors we leave closed for ourselves.

Sometimes it starts with a job description. Ten bullet points. Two pages long. Filled with acronyms, requirements, and wish lists that look more like fantasy than realistic expectations.

I used to read those lists and think: I don’t tick every box. I shouldn’t even bother.

But the truth is, most employers don’t expect you to tick every box. They’re searching for possibility, not perfection and possibility often comes in threes.

Why Three?

Here’s a simple rule I’ve started living by:

If I find three things in that job description that I know I can do confidently, competently, with results, I apply.

Not because I’m reckless, but because:

• Job descriptions are wish lists. Employers rarely get 100% of what they write down.
• Transferable skills matter. If you can do three, you can often learn the rest.
• Growth comes from the stretch. You’ll never be ready for the next level if you only apply for jobs you’ve already mastered.

The Hidden Cost of Waiting

When we wait for permission, we wait forever.

Opportunities don’t announce themselves with a blinking green light. They show up disguised as long lists, intimidating roles, or preferred but not required degrees.

And if we only move when everything feels certain, we stay exactly where we are.

What Boldness Looks Like

I’ve seen this play out in real life. A friend of mine applied for a role where she only met about 40% of the listed qualifications. But she could point to three skills she excelled at: project management, client communication, and research.

She got the job. Not because she was perfect, but because she showed she could grow into the role.

That’s what boldness looks like. It’s not arrogance, it’s momentum.

My Message

If you find three things you can do on that job description, apply for that job. Don’t overthink. Don’t wait for someone to tell you you’re ready.

The people who grow are not the ones who tick every box, but the ones willing to step into a box that feels too big and grow into it.

So here’s my call to you: The next time you see an opportunity that makes you pause, count to three. If you can honestly say yes to three skills, hit apply.

Your future self will thank you.