Who's In Your Circle
Who's In Your Circle
Have you ever told someone about your aspirations, only to be met with unexpected skepticism?
You share your desire for a promotion, but your manager responds with, "Do you really think you're ready for that? Maybe you should focus on your current role first."
You express your wish to become an artist, but a family member replies, "That's a tough field. You should consider something more stable."
It can feel like a cold splash of water extinguishing the fire within you.
Their responses might be like:
“Just forget about it.”
“It’ll never happen.”
I’ve been there too.
When I first shared my vision of sharing inspirations, becoming a self-help author, an inspirational speaker, I received comments like:
“Authors don’t make money; you’ll be poor.”
“Hong Kong people only care about making money. Help rich people publish their books, you’ll be more successful.”
I felt disheartened, far from the encouragement I sought. I listened for a while and followed their advice.
But their words didn’t fill my cup, they emptied my cup.
This continued for a while until an inner thought spoke to me:
“Pursue your passion, and money will follow.”
I began to shift my perspective, letting go of the need for external approval on my uncertain journey.
Last year was a whirlwind. I offered many free workshops, faced burnout, and earned much less than in my previous corporate role. I encountered more failures than I ever anticipated, but I also explored countless opportunities.
Yet, nothing fills my spirit like sitting down to write like this post, connecting with guests on my podcast, or having meaningful conversations where I can share my authentic journey and lessons learned.
There are no shortcuts in life; you must put in the work, just like at the gym.
The beauty of purpose lies in the joy of what you do, which continually replenishes your spirit.
You can’t deceive yourself.
If there’s something you’ve been wanting to pursue, here are 3 lessons which gave me the courage to walk a different path, I want to share them with you today:
Step 1 - Listen to Your Heart
Only you can truly gauge whether what you’re doing is fulfilling. Does it uplift you in the end? Be honest with yourself. Your heart has the answer already.
Step 2 - You Need Data, Not Validation
Be cautious of seeking approval from others.
Consult someone you trust who genuinely believes in you.
Collect data to measure your progress, don’t collect opinion.
Subjective opinions distract you from making progress;
objective data propels you to reach your destination.
Step 3 - Find Your Yes People
Surround Yourself with Support. Don’t waste time and energy on naysayers.
Celebrate every rejection and setback, as they bring you closer to the people who will support you wholeheartedly. Find your YES people.
When you listen to the wrong people in life, you risk living a life that they want for you—a career they wish to build—rather than pursuing the path that is meant for you and brings you true fulfillment."
Evolve together,
Aaron