One of my favourite authors is a man by the name of Earl Nightingale.
He was an American radio speaker and author, dealing mostly with the subjects of human character development, motivation, and meaningful existence.
My two favourite quotes from Earl are as follows:
Whatever the majority of people is doing, under any given circumstances, if you do the exact opposite, you will probably never make another mistake as long as you live.
Successful people follow independent paths. They break away from the crowd. They join a smaller crowd. They don’t have the television on all the day long. They use their time constructively. It’s easier to win! There is less competition up there and the view is better.
He would often speak about independence, self-reliance and forging your own path instead of following the herd.
The only thing you will get from following the herd is a herd mentality.
You won’t be able to think critically because the herd does the thinking for you.
You’ll be easy to deceive because it’s a known fact that the larger the group, the easier it is to deceive.
The best thing you can do is to start thinking like an outsider.
Being an outsider, or feeling like an outsider, can have both positive and negative aspects, and the benefits can vary depending on the context and one's perspective. Here are some potential benefits of being an outsider:
-
Unique Perspective: Outsiders often see things from a different viewpoint because they are not deeply entrenched in a particular group or culture. This unique perspective can lead to fresh insights and innovative ideas.
-
Independence: Outsiders may have more independence and freedom to make choices and decisions because they are not bound by the expectations or norms of a particular group.
-
Resilience: Facing challenges and adversity as an outsider can build resilience. It can help individuals develop strength and adaptability as they navigate unfamiliar territory.
-
Diverse Connections: Outsiders often have the opportunity to connect with a wider range of people from different backgrounds. This can lead to diverse and enriching relationships.
-
Creativity: Being outside the mainstream can stimulate creativity and encourage individuals to think outside the box.
-
Self-Discovery: Being an outsider can prompt self-reflection and self-discovery. It can help individuals better understand their own values, identity, and beliefs.
-
Empathy: When you've experienced being on the fringes, you may develop greater empathy for others who are marginalized or excluded.
-
Freedom to Define Identity: Outsiders have the freedom to define their own identity, free from the constraints of group expectations.
-
Opportunity for Change: Outsiders may be in a better position to drive change and challenge the status quo. They can act as catalysts for reform and progress.
-
Learning and Growth: Facing challenges and adapting to new environments can lead to personal growth and increased knowledge.
Sure, it's important to note that the benefits of being an outsider can vary greatly depending on the individual's perspective and the specific circumstances.
Being an outsider can also come with challenges, such as feelings of isolation, discrimination, and a lack of support.
Therefore, while there are potential advantages to being an outsider, it's crucial to recognise and address the difficulties that may come with it as well.
I hope you find this of value, my brothers.
Keep winning!