Starting Out
All self-started, up-and-coming, hopeful individuals find themselves very desperate early in the game with respect to opportunities and money. It's so easy to get yourself involved in causes that you don't wholeheartedly believe in. Much of the time you may find yourself smudging your ideology to justify taking on questionable opportunities in hopes that it will propel you towards your real goals. Although worth is most commonly measured by the meniscus of wealth, in modern days more emphasis and value is being put into integrity.
Know Where You Stand. I know it sounds lame but it's very important to take some time before even beginning any kind of endeavor to write some kind of mission statement. Don't just write down the typical mumbo-jumbo or gloss over it. Think about yourself, your ideals and where you'd like to go. Take it seriously. You can't build a building without having a solid foundation to put it on.
Follow It. Saying and doing are two different things. Nobody wants to look like a hypocrite so if you truly know where you stand then keep your ground. Nothing more needs to be said about this.
Resist Temptation to Sell Yourself Out. Sometimes the easiest way is not the best way. Despite contrary belief the best things are not those created with the intent of selling them. Focus on your goals, your beliefs and your mission. That's the only way you can reach your highest potential. This is the only way you can get quality recognition, and build a strong following. People will know you're serious and not just someone who rides the waves. They will give you the best support you need, even when times get rough (which they will). It's never about getting exposure or appeasing other people.
I look up to those who are able to maintain this balance like Johnny Cupcakes and The Hundreds. Even Oakley. Despite coming off as a huge corporation they still pour money back into their products and to sponsor and support the sports and activities from which their core consumers belong to.
Do you know where you stand? How good of a job are you doing at maintaining your ground?
| 0 Comments / Tags: Philosophy | 05:24 PM |
