(photo: @bryanminear)
Growing up, we are constantly told that we are special, unique little snowflakes.
This sentiment is laughable at best, and downright demeaning at worst.
Sure, there is a positive connotation behind this idea – knowing that we each have unique personalities, passions, and skills that we need to discover and pursue in order to lead a fulfilling life.
But there is a very negative aspect that comes with it as well.
It gives people an undeserved sense of entitlement.
If we believe that we are special in this way, we also think that we somehow deserve to have success happen to us.
Some people think they’re so special and so much better than everyone else that they deserve to be treated like royalty for no good reason.
On the other side of the spectrum, some people think that their problems are so unique and individual that they feel alone in the world, and in turn feel like the universe gave them the short end of the stick, so everyone should feel bad for them.
They’re both wrong – and both of their mindsets create roadblocks to the individual’s growth and success.
The truth is you aren’t that special, and the world doesn’t owe you a thing.
Those problems that you’re dealing with? There are millions of people dealing with the same thing. And there are millions of more people going through even worse things than you are.
The solution?
Quit feeling sorry for yourself.
Appreciate everything that you’ve been given.
Be grateful for the gifts that you have in your life.
If you don’t you’ll never be able to progress. All you’ll do is sit around feeling bad for yourself for something that isn’t even that unique of a problem.
You aren’t alone.
When you finally fully realize that you aren’t entitled to anything, you’ll actually feel a sense of liberation.
No more excuses. You’ll realize there’s no point to complaining, there’s no point about being resentful about things that are out of your control.