As the economy changes, one of the most important perspectives you can adopt is staying true to who you are. It’s the only way to not only thrive, but to feel fully alive; however, it can be extremely difficult in a world filled with stereotypes, and false judgements.
If you really study truly successful people, and those living their dreams, you will find a commonality: They value and express who they are regardless of others’ opinions or criticism. Most actually credit their success to staying confident in their core values, expressing their true identity, and not conforming to what’s considered “normal.”
I believe this is the only way to express our true genius and contribution to the world! If you’re going to build a world class life, you’re bound to run into a few people who just won’t (or can’t) understand where you’re coming from. In a world filled with people trying to fit in, go against the grain and stand out. I’ve carefully crafted these 5 tips to help you live a dynamic and fulfilled life. Enjoy!
Always Be You: Don’t change to fit the mold of society, don’t change to fit in with the people around you, unless it’s for the better. Don’t let others opinions drown out your real potential and belief in yourself. Embrace being different and don’t change so people will like you. Be yourself and the right people will love the real you.
Choose Your Values Wisely And Authentically: Be willing to deepen your sense of self. Create a personal philosophy for living. Know your values and what you care about most. Doing so will increase your confidence and how people look at you. If you choose your values based on who you are, what you stand for, and what you believe in, it won’t matter what others think.
Opinions Are More About The Person Giving Them: Remember, everybody sees the world as they portray it. This doesn’t mean they are right, better, or smarter than you. They are simply different, have a different set of values, beliefs, and life experiences. Their opinions may be valid, or invalid. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide how outside opinions fit your life.
Trust Your Vision Even When Everybody Else Is Doubting It: You must drop the need to be liked if you want an extraordinary life. People who care what others think of them will always be limited to others opinions. Remember when you pursue greatness don’t expect others to support you because you’ll represent the courage, strength, and vision they don’t yet have. The remarkable innovator, Steve Jobs use to say “your time is limited so don’t waste it living somebody else’s life.”
Keep A Good Circle Of Friends: The greatest support system in the world is good friends. You can’t be careless here, you need quality friends. Friends are those people who know all about you and still like you. Take care of them, they will take care of you. Inspire them, they will inspire you. Nothing is more valuable than your inner circle and the greatest value is one person caring for another.
The point is, nobody can guide you better than you can guide yourself. Listening and learning from others has immeasurable value, and feedback from the right people is needed, but ultimately your decisions are up to you. Realize the naysayers, or those with strong opinions, are fearful of life in their own way, for their own reasons. Respect to you and the progress you’re making towards a world class life.The world needs you operating at your absolute best!
Peter
I think you are so right. Being in the middle of hosting an event on authentic voice and self, the message is loud and clear that it has to start from the inside.
Thanks for reading Eileen! I greatly appreciate it. Once people understand their outer world is a reflection of their inner world everything starts to change!
What a perfect inspirational message for me today. I have been Peter Voogd . “Well behaved women seldom make history”, ” If you want an omelette ,you have to break some eggs” ” If you are gonna put on a great show, they say “Break a leg”. Conformity is the slow descending rut that others cheer you down as you grow up. I am grateful for this Dutchman’s touch..If I ever meet him I will buy him a Bier. Thank You, Mr. Voogd
It’s great to hear that Lloyd! And I will definitely take you up on that offer. Glad you took something away from this, and as the Dutch say, “dank u” for your kind words!
Very helpful and uplifting, thank you.
Thank-you Fabi for reading. Appreciate you!!
Peter you are really getting me focused, thanks a lot.
It’s my pleasure Bonosus! Thanks for investing in yourself and staying focused on what’s most important.
Great Article! I have been silently following all your posts and interviews. Thank you for your commitment for inspiring others!
Thanks Will! I appreciate all you’ve done as well. Glad to see you focused and moving towards your goals and dreams.
Very well written, Peter. Very inspirational. Thank you.