“Respond intelligently even to unintelligent treatment.”  ~ Lao Tzu

This entry is dedicated to all who have struggled with the labels of “dumb,” “slow” and “they’ll never make anything of themselves.” I’ve had numerous similar comments directed toward me both in my youth, as an adult, before and after success. So here’s my advice: ignore them. 

If you study various human success stories you’ll find a common theme. Over and over, the people with the most raw talent and opportunity don’t always succeed. My theory is that in many cases the smartest guy in the room, the most attractive person or the amazing athlete never grows the muscles to be creative or persistent when life’s challenges and hardships occur. However, many of us “under-achievers” thrive because our life has been full of “grinding it out” to make ends meet and have been working on challenges for most of our lives. We have the mental toughness of a Bruce Lee which enables us to face adversity with courage and success.

I’ll be the first to admit that I have weaknesses (spelling, math, penmanship, computer skills, and others). I have competed against people with far more raw talent. Some of my colleagues started on second base while I was simply trying to get away from home plate. Yet despite a number of personal and professional challenges, I’m still standing, successful, and live a life of great personal freedom.  

Characteristics like perseverance and common sense coupled with good decisions are why so many of us “under-achievers” are successful. Bottom line: Ignore all the comments; go ahead and succeed anyway. Believe in yourself, be creative, be persistent, and always work on improving your decision-making. Do these things and you’ll find yourself with an amazing life.

“Perseverance is not a long race; it is many short races one after another.”  ~ Walter Elliott