How many times have you been told to “be reasonable?”
To
- sit down
- be quiet
- behave
- don’t make waves and
- stop asking questions.
Countless, I suspect. If you heard that a lot growing up, you may still be following those misguided directions.
For the record, you were not created to “fit in.” You were designed, quite uniquely, to stand out. To take your place in this world by standing up for what you believe in, going after your dreams with gusto, and contributing your distinct gift to others.
Thank all the critics and naysayers for making you stronger.
Each time you say no to being reasonable, you grow stronger, wiser, and more in tune with who you really are. You will find your voice. You will make a difference.
I think that’s why I have always resonated with Laurel Thatcher Ulrich’s quote,
Well-behaved women seldom make history.
Since as far back as I can remember, other people – my family, teachers, coaches, bosses – would have been more comfortable if I had just been a little more practical, logical, realistic, sensible, pragmatic, and reasonable.
I remember a boss one time who literally said to me, “Ann, get back in your box.”
I didn’t know it then, but I had begun the journey to becoming a full-fledged entrepreneur. Back then, I just thought there was something wrong with me because I couldn’t or wouldn’t accept the status quo.
What I really felt like being was a heretic! Someone who challenged the process, who didn’t accept the norm, and who not only changed the rules, but defined them.
It’s time to awaken your inner heretic.
If you’re an entrepreneur and you intend to be a success at it, it’s time to let go of your desire to please everyone else but yourself. Figure out what you want….what YOU want. Then go rock the boat!
Great advice.
Listening to the mediocre preach compliance with their mediocre thinking would will only bring us what they have, mediocrity.
That being said, listening to the right mentors, coaches and supporters can accelerate our success. The challenge is be guided by our own wisdom while also being open to the constructive feedback from the right people.
Challenging, but then no one who has experienced consistent success will tell us that success, in any endeavor, is easy.
Keep those great thoughts coming. I so appreciate your wisdom and grace.
Dave, you are so right, success isn’t easy but it is simple. Our destiny is formed by our habits and those habits are a result of the choices we make over and over…we can always choose a different destiny. Thank you for your kind comments and for being one of the most affirming people I know – I appreciate you, my friend!
– Ann