So as I continue to write daily in my notebook so that hopefully the majority of my entries will one day show up here, I became reflective of the days not too long ago when I was planning this blog. Sitting for hours, asking hubby did he like this picture or that, this angle or that. Changing around images, developing a voice, etc. And while my blog is still on its infant legs, I can honestly say I am proud and reminded of all the hard, individual work it took to get to this point. So even if nothing else came from this, I know what I’m capable of.
There were so many times I felt delayed because I didn’t have the largest support system behind me. At the hearing of my dream to have a prospering, inspiring blog that would show people that they could be a misfit and totally badass, most scoffed and laughed in my face. Some even said it was a great idea but giggled behind my back, thinking I had no resources to make my dream work. While that was true, resilience, tenacity, and simply a little bit of faith was all I needed to get the website going. And now, here we are Misfits.
God puts dreams in our heart, I believe. I believe he speaks to each one of us individually and plants a motive for waking up, a theme for our lives, a reason to live. While not all of these are part of our divine purpose, I do believe that when dreams come knocking, you should embrace it instead of running out of fear. The successful people we read of every single day weren’t successful simply because of luck; rather, they had a dream and worked their tail feather off every day to accomplish their goals, to get to that point where dreams become reality.
So, what are some things you can do next time you feel inspired, yet defeated at the same time ? Well, I’m here to help.
1. You Have Nothing To Fear
As someone who lives under the idea that I have lost nothing in the world but only gained, I see fear as an unrealistic obstacle when you want to do something. Why be scared if no matter how things turn out, you will still have a learning experience ? Had the blog not worked out, I would have still gained a valuable experience in working, investing in my writing, and even learning a few helpful tips about HTML! However, if I had never taken that first step, I wouldn’t be here. Take that first step because you honestly never know.
2. Forget your Haters. Seriously.
I was never reminded more in my life until I decided to do the blog how many haters I have. Personally I find that tragic because good people don’t deserve bullpoop, but hey, if Jesus suffered, right? When people are threatened by you, your product, or even God’s promise for you, it’s easy to quickly attract pesty mosquitoes as an entourage instead of other forms of light. While I really hate the adage that if you don’t have haters then you’re not doing anything worth hatin’ on, unfortunately it’s true. People can only hate when they see something hating on, so don’t get discouraged by the hate, be inspired that iteans you’re doing something worth the attention.
3. Realize There Are Many Paths That Take Time
This is something that takes people a while to understand. First, not everyone will have the same path to success. Secondly, patience must be acquired for however the path decides to take you. People always think they’ll start something and within a matter of days or weeks, they’ll be an overnight celebrity. Contrary to Twista’s lyrics, most don’t become celebrities overnight. And besides, who really wants that? Take the time to nurture and craft your gift, learn mistakes along the way, and find ways to effectively market your product, even if that’s just you. Don’t be discouraged that your path takes a little longer than others, or that you encounter responsibilities others may not have. Remember the road and path to success is just as unique and versatile as the individual, so breathe. Stretch. Shake it. Let it go.
