Attitude is Everything

When is the last time you had an idea that you felt passionate about only to find people lining up to tell you all the reasons it could not be done? What about a dream you had, just to run into a crowd of naysayers to reveal to you that’s its too big, or crazy or you’re not worthy? Remember this, the best ideas, the biggest goals, and the most impactful accomplishments are typically first met with doubt, rebuke and scoffing, not because they are wrong or unworthy, but because they are different and difficult. I would tell my kids growing up that if they had an idea or goal that people would make fun of them for or tell them, they were crazy, that they were probably on the right track and to keep on going. 

I read the above recently in the book “Up From Slavery” by Booker T Washington.

Booker T. Washington had every reason to NOT to succeed in life, yet he turned every one of those obstacles into a source of strength, of learning, and of gratitude, becoming one of the most impactful leaders of education and entrepreneurship in our country. His attitude led to a better perspective, and as Mike Hardwick so often teaches, Attitude is everything.

If you set out on a righteous path and have a worthy goal, the first thing you should expect is other people’s doubt. Heck, even some of Dave Ramsey’s closest friends told him he was crazy to start a radio show talking about winning with money as he was coming out of bankruptcy. Twenty-seven years later, he’s helped millions of families and business owners and is the number one voice in finance in America. I’m glad he didn’t listen to all the smart people who told him to get a “real” job. 

Dare to think differently. Dare to set out after big goals, especially those that lift up others. Think about better ways to do things. Don’t wait for others to open doors for you as you will be standing outside for an awfully long time. And remember, if you find a worthy goal to pursue, expect resistance from other people and expect the road to be very hard, but persist, stay focused, do the work, and you will accomplish something significant.