How many times have you ignored your instincts and believed your dream was too good to be true or too far out of reach? Even after choosing to follow your gut and pursue your dream, how many times have you permitted others to dissuade you or derail your hopes? We’re all capable of achieving anything we set out to do, but because we’ve been so conditioned to not want to rock society’s boat or go against the status quo, we accept our current lot in life and ignore of our heart’s desire.
Sometimes decades come and go without us mustering enough courage to act on the burning urge that’s being suppressed deep within. Of course there’ll always be moments when we second guess ourselves and lose sight of our vision–we are all only human. Far too often, we instead listen to the outside noise and opinions of those who want nothing more than for us to fail.
The sad truth is even when we find ourselves courageous enough to pursue our heart’s fondest desires, doubt can easily creep into our psyche and quell the dream. Whether it comes from outside forces or is self-inflicted, it can stop us cold in our tracks. And if we’re not careful, it can diminish and even remove what little faith we have left in ourselves to begin with.
Even sadder is the people you’re closest to and regularly associate with would rather not see you empower or try to better yourself. Misery loves company, and because they’ve chosen to ignore their power and shun their dreams, nothing would make them happier if you did the same. Secretly, they cheer your losses and boo your gains. They’d rather you accept and embrace mediocrity just like they have. Because their fear keeps them in a continual loop of the cycle of eating, sleeping, and working, they want you to shun your dreams, embrace your fear, and do as they do.
To combat this doubt, we must work diligently to strengthen the faith we have in ourselves. Just like a muscle, the more we exercise our faith and work it out, the stronger it’ll become. The power within ourselves is an innate force solely for our use; the source where infinite possibilities exist. Let’s take chances and bet on ourselves! Don’t be afraid to take risks–we either win or learn from them. True faith can turn risks into absolute certainties If we’re empowered. We can also use our power to inform and empower others. When we empower ourselves and seek to empower others, the world automatically becomes better. Live the life of your dreams by refusing to let life live you!
Charles R. Butts Jr. 