No matter what you do or what you say, someone, somewhere will have a problem with it.

I’ve wasted many night’s sleep worrying about what someone says or thinks about me. It’s impossible to make everyone happy. If you have a cause, an idea, a perspective that is dear to you, then it is a forgone conclusion that you will have naysayers and detractors. Not everyone shares the same perspective.

I don’t write this because I am currently experiencing this phenomenon, rather, I write because it’s something that plagues too many of us. It inhibits too many of us from making moves or changing paths.

My parents instilled in us to be nice. I don’t suggest throwing humanity to the side and steamrolling through everyone with “I don’t care!” blaring from your megaphone. I simply recommend, this coming from someone who lives outside of the box, to identify your set of core values and make sure they align with your overall vision. If they do, respectfully move forward while being aware that not everyone will agree with your decisions. BUT, by being respectful and adhering the the values that make you, you, there’s nothing to be ashamed of.

A few months ago, I was working with Keith, my friend and mentor. We were finishing up my book, and I explained how I was so worried that I didn’t unintentionally forget anyone and that I was worried I didn’t do something wrong. I was paranoid about an inadvertent error. Keith is a philosophizer, and that’s why we get along so well together. He said something to the effect of, “You can’t make an omelette without breaking some eggs.” It’s true.

Move forward. Pursue your goals. Identify your core values, and be respectful of others’ feelings. Try your best to make as many people happy as possible, but know that you won’t please everyone.

Oh, and if you haven’t already read it, I hear my book’s pretty enjoyable :) You can get your copy here: www.charlie-brenneman.com/store

Thanks for reading!

Spaniard