After a decade spent observing human behavior I’ve noticed some patterns that have led to a surprisingly simple theory of mine: The sources of our greatest problems are two fold: One, a lack of information and two, perhaps most importantly, a plethora of wrong information. Accordingly, we can divide the majority of the population into two camps:
Apart from the rare exceptions (that, for better or worse, also get the most exposure), one’s true passion in life is most often preceded by a passion to do excellent work.
And it all begins, somewhat ironically, with an often self-initiated passion to become passionate about giving your all.
The world is better only because some people are willing to follow through and execute an idea they believe in.
Contrary to popular belief, ambitious individuals trying to make a name for themselves don’t suffer from a lack of resources. They suffer mainly from obscurity. And by definition, obscurity always increases at the norm. Why? Because “common” literally means widespread – it’s the peak of the bell curve; the home of the majority.
Life can be tough — there’s no doubt about it. Sometimes the seas are rough and the emotional baggage becomes increasingly heavy.
But it’s not brute strength we need to stay afloat, it’s a buoyant disposition — an inherent inclination to look for the best, remain lighthearted, and laugh when possible.
We’re all familiar with gravity, but we don’t often anticipate life’s responsibilities and challenges to develop their own gravity as well.
The greatest influencers appreciate reality as it stands today AND the ability they have to change it. These two aspects make them invaluable to the fate of their community, team, business, family, and their world.
Linchpins are those who play an invaluable role in the relationship of the ideal and the real. They not only help bridge this gap, they literally are the bridge.
We should be optimistic in viewing our setbacks as preparation for future circumstances and opportunities that we cannot yet foresee.
In doing so, failure becomes cross training.
One’s dream life may not look the same to you, me, or society. And that’s okay – as long as the greater good benefits in some way too. I look at it this way: True balance is found when one’s lifestyle is both fulfilling and sustainable.
Do you believe your hunch has potential? Then don’t wait for ‘idea proof’ before investing time, money, and energy. In the end, the people who change the world are those who act upon the hunch that tells them they can change the world.
Many of us face metaphoric Stop signs in life when we receive negative feedback, a poor result, lack of motivation, etc. and then just… Stop. But these Stop signs of life are not to be taken literally – they do not indicate a parking zone.
Sometimes it seems society’s goal is to produce conforming, non-inquisitive, and apathetic grown-ups. This, of course, is an excellent way to shun both fun and success from life.
The opposite of such a stoic existence is to embody the curiosity, liveliness, playfulness, and spontaneity of a child (and yes, these traits can co-exist with maturity).