Die Enormous

“I’d rather die enormous, than live dormant.” ~Jay-Z

Over the years, I’ve gone through somewhat of a metamorphosis.  I instantly just thought of Franz Kafka’s disgusting allegorical visuals, but that’s not quite what I mean. 

Back in the day, I was an extreme introvert.  I’m still not exactly a social butterfly, but only because I’ve come to realize that being selective when it comes to friendship keeps down the riffraff.  It’s more of a decided defense mechanism than anything else, but I digress.  Coming from being a shy little girl to the strong, self-confident woman that I am today was not an overnight change.  Today, I decided to reflect on how those changes came about. 

I love lists.  I’ve even posted a few here in my blog over the past few months.  They’re easier to digest, concise, and effective.  So, I’ve compiled a list that breaks down some of the tactics, practices and beliefs that I’ve adopted that have helped me transform over the years. 

1)      Learn to live for YOU…..not everyone else. 

It’s hard for us to accept that we can’t always make everyone around us happy, but it’s the cold, hard truth; pleasing everyone around you is an impossibility.  For that reason, when faced with the decision of doing what works for you and doing what works for others, you should win that toss-up every time.  Disclaimer: I’m not promoting selfishness, but I am promoting self-awareness.  Be aware of what sacrifices you are and are NOT willing to make for someone else’s happiness.

2)      “He who says he can, and he who says he can’t, are usually both right.” ~Confucius~

Found this quote yesterday and it spoke to me instantly!  Truer words have never been spoken.  We have to move past a place of doubt to a place of belief in our own capabilities.  We can literally…..LITERALLY do anything that we put our minds to (as long as our goals don’t involve defying the laws of physics and all that jazz.  Be realistic.)  I don’t care if EVERYONE you share your dreams with tells you that you’re crazy.  They’re only right if you let them be, which brings me to my next point

3)      You can’t tell everyone where you’re going. 

I heard a quote somewhere that went something like “Don’t go to the hardware store expecting to buy milk”.   Abstract, I know, but it’s really quite profound.  What I took from it is that you can’t go to people who are notoriously unsupportive looking for support.  If you’re surrounded by dream killers, expect them to try to kill your dreams too.  Sometimes, you have to keep your journey and destination to yourself to avoid being discouraged.

4)      You’re not really successful until you’ve taught someone else to do what you do. 

I think it’s an abomination to learn a skill, identify all the stumbling blocks and shortcuts, achieve success…….and then keep alllllllll that knowledge and insight to yourself.  Who does that!?!?  If I figure something out that works, I can’t WAIT to tell people how I did it.  I’m a firm believer in bringing other people up with me and helping them learn to become self-sufficient to the point that they too can help others achieve their goals.  Remember where you came from.  Whether you did it all on your own, or you had help along the way, you understand what I’m saying here.

5)      Think it true. 

This is my last point (not because I don’t have more to say, but because I don’t want you to think I’m rambling).  Set your mind on where you’re going, not where you’ve been, or even where you are today.  I watched this documentary on Netflix called “The Secret” (pretty sure it’s on YouTube too) that really, REALLY changed my life.  It changed the way I think entirely.  I began to envision myself as a success and achieving my goals, and what I found is this: it doesn’t have to be some big mystical event, but once you focus on your goals, you’re more aware of staying the course.  After watching the film and letting it sink in, I was less easily distracted by outside interference, more motivated to work, and more optimistic – all factors that directly relate to being successful.

 

That’s it for now, but I’m definitely interested in what others have to say!  Feel free to add to the list or give me your feedback!  Also, if you’ve seen the film, what’d you think?  Don’t forget to subscribe!

 

~Raven