I see the same type of statement a lot on the internet these days, “I’m a self-made man,” or “I built this all by myself,” or “I built this empire by myself.” I can’t help but shake my head when I read this kind of self-absorbed bullshit. You didn’t “self-make” a damn thing, you always had help.
Now, before you stop reading, thinking I’m full of crap and poo-pooing on your narcissistic parade, hear me out.
Every experience you have in life, the good times and the bad, all shape your decision-making paradigm moving forward. Every person that you have the opportunity to interact with has the ability to shape your thought process, your desires, your dreams, and your actions. Read that closely: They have the ability to. This doesn’t mean they do, but there is a good chance that conversations and actions plant seeds in our minds that may eventually take root and grow.
These collective experiences are called influence. What you might be thinking at this point: Influence isn’t action! No one took action besides me! I did this! And there is a good chance you are right. The key to realizing, though is that without the influence, the inspiration, and the collective experience, there’s a good chance you wouldn’t have taken that first step.
The haters and doubters in our life can fuel our entrepreneurial fires! The love and support we receive from others can provide us the confidence boost we sometimes require. You aren’t living and operating in a bubble.
When you start to take real action and to see momentum, the first thing most entrepreneurs begin to think about is how do I grow and scale this momentum? How do I multiply my small wins into major success? Many will start to get help. Your team, and my team, whether paid or volunteer, helps to build the vision and dream.
When I hear people screaming from the top of nearby summits about what they made on their own, I feel bad for the shoulders of the giants they are standing on when they shout their message. Never lose sight of those who have come before you that guided, mentored, doubted, supported, ridiculed, and helped you along the way. Give credit where it is due! Put that energy out into the universe and you’ll be amazed at how much comes back to you! Stay hungry and remain humble!
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Original article appeared at https://www.drmattmotil.com/havent-self-made-damn-thing/
