I wanted to talk a little bit about character, integrity and being true to yourself. From what I observe in the world being true to yourself and your values is paramount to anything else.
There seems to be a lot of people that have money and so called success, but are miserable. I just don't think the 'win at all cost' mentality is always healthy in a normal setting. What I do think is important is "keep your integrity at all cost".
This is not to say that monetary success is a bad thing. There are many who have done wonderful things for our society and have been wildly financially successful. I just want to emphasize that that money or fame alone do not make you a success. Looking in the mirror, knowing you have been true, honest, done your best and done the right thing is what I would define as a successful life.
There is something amazing and admirable about believing in your dreams even in the face of naysayers and doubters. I say if you feel it and you want it...You should go for it!
History is loaded with people that were mocked or doubted by people. Some such as Edgar Allen Poe never did see real success during their own lifetimes. None the less certain individuals continue to chase after their dreams, because they must. It is in their DNA to do so. It is my belief they live far richer lives than most.
I wanted to post an example of a person that chose to follow a dream, that became successful in an unconventional way.
1988 Olympic Ski Jumper Eddie 'The Eagle' Edwards.
Eddie was sarcastically nicknamed 'The Eagle' due to his poor ski jumping abilities. Edwards was working as a construction worker when he got the call he qualified for the 1988 Winter Games in Calgary. Edwards was built more like a construction worker, weighing in 20bls heavier than the next heaviest competitor in the event. Edwards was known for wearing 5 pairs of socks under his too large boots. Eddie was also known for donning extremely thick glasses that would fog up during his jumps.
Despite coming in dead last Eddie became an instant celebrity. Edward's fish out of water performance, lack of skill, breath taking 'Will he make it?' jumps, and goofy looks turned him into one of the most popular athletes of the 88' Winter Games. Edwards appeared on several popular talk shows, gained numerous sponsorship deals, wrote a book and returned to school to gain his law degree.
So, even though he was mocked and thought by many to have no business competing Eddie Edwards chased his dreams. Even though Eddie did not win in his event he became a huge success. More importantly, he has lived a very rich and content life following his dreams and aspirations.
You just never know where life may take you. Do you have the courage to Soar like an eagle?
