Ignore the Naysayers

I was driving to work a few days ago and found something interesting on one of the FM morning shows. In between the usual banter or “deep” discussions about current pop culture, one of the shows was having a discussion about a book by Seth Godin.

Unfortunately, I’m not sure which book it was, but from everything I’ve read by him, take your pick. They are all good.

Two of the personalities on the morning show started going on about how great Seth is, as well as everything he teaches. One of the radio guys, however, would have none of it.

You know the drill: “I’m sure it (pursuing your dreams and goals) works for you, but not everybody has it as easy as you do. I have TWO kids and a job. I have a LIFE!”

So I’m sure I’m crazy for yelling at the guy on the radio, but that was exactly what I did. “Yeah, well, I have almost four kids, an hour-long drive to my job, and I’m doing it.” Oh but I guess I don’t have a life, whatever that means.

The two Godin fans continued to lecture the naysayer, but of course they couldn’t change his mind. After all, he had a life.

Anyhow, you catch what I’m saying. Most people don’t want to hear that they can be better than they are. They don’t want to hear that they don’t have to settle for a life of mediocrity, simply going through the motions, paying the bills, and hoping Social Security will exist long enough to help them continue their habits after they retire (if they retire) so they can take it easy for a few years before they die.

Morbid? I supposed.

But this is life we’re talking about. And if you’re not doing what you love (or working toward it), you’re wasting it. If you’re going to make excuses (I’m too busy because blah blah blah), and then spend your precious moments of free-time watching sitcoms or arguing with strangers on facebook, then you truly are not living.

And I’m sorry if that’s harsh, but the people who make it make sacrifices every day. Stephen King worked like a machine until he made it. Brandon Sanderson said he wrote eight novels before getting published. Dave Ramsey lost his house and went bankrupt before starting over with nothing and building his personal finance empire. They all made sacrifices.

Every time I hear someone say “Well it’s easy for them. Or it’s easy for you,” my head gets a little closer to exploding. It’s not easy for anyone.

So for you starving artists, garage band musicians, and aspiring writers out there, know that you’ll meet resistance at every turn. Most people you meet won’t share your passion. They may even think you’re crazy. But don’t let them get you down.

And always know that you’re not alone. So stay positive and keep chasing your dreams.

How’s your year been so far? What have you done to reach your goals? Leave a comment and let us know!