Playing by the Rules

One of the hardest lessons about growing up is realizing that once we are adults there are no more standard rules about success or failure. Most of us grew up in a very structured school setting with predetermined upward movement of grade progressions. Of course, for some, this was not always the case, but for many, this is the norm well into our late teens and early or mid twenties. While this type of built in system has its benefits it also can leave most accustomed to this standardized progression. After school though we either fall into two spectrums regarding this: one being that we find the absence of this structure completely liberating, and the second without this structure being a terrifying and stressful thing. For the people that get it they can climb the corporate ladder quickly, or simply have the confidence to go and be entrepreneurs. For many people, they feel stuck or uncertain about how to move forward in life.

The reality is that working very hard is just enough to keep our head afloat; this concept is the base success is built upon. While getting to where we really want to go takes a Herculean effort of additional blood, sweat, and tears. The most important aspect of all of this is to remember that what matters most is how happy you are with your current position in life. There is a time and place for all of us to be rule followers, and rule breakers within legal and moral limits. Be empowered by realizing you can literally change everything about your life if you want, and be sure to plan accordingly and responsibly in this process. Also, take comfort in knowing that no one or thing can push you until you are ready. Figuring out where you are in life, where you want to be, and how to get there is a very rewarding process without a right or wrong way to do it. Put the effort in your way and forget about what everyone else is doing. So be brave, bold, and adventurous, or wait, be patient, and plan where you are going to take your life next.

- Robby Silk