I’m the worst when it comes to getting knockbacks; I take it to heart, even if it wasn’t necessarily my fault that something didn’t go the way it was planned. It’s one of those qualities that annoys a lot of people about me, but it’s something that I can’t help.
However, I feel like i’ve been doing much better with setbacks lately, and although I do still have a wobble every now (what human doesn’t?) and then when it looks like something’s heading for a nosedive. I really do think it’s because I’ve started to not care so much about what people think… which is a big achievement for me as a person!
So, what have I learnt that has brought me to this post? That there’s literally no reason to give up what you love, no matter what the world throws at you.
Use It as an Opportunity
I’ve had people ask me in the past what the point of my blog is; more specifically the animal rights sections. I’ve had people tell me to my face that my blog is achieving nothing; that the information that I write isn’t going to change how the fishermen in Taiji see their ‘culture’; that SeaWorld aren’t going to stop keeping orca captive just because I’ve written a blog post on the subject.
You know what? They’re absolutely right. However, the main issue I have with their argument is that they are totally missing the reason behind what I do. I’m not trying to singlehandedly bring down huge corporations – I’m simply trying to inform people of things that they won’t know.
I’ve not given up because I’m seeing my knowledge and passion as an opportunity to get others involved who may not have known that Corky was once a wild whale, or that dolphins from Taiji end up in swim with dolphin programs. If you can make one small change with what you are doing, why should you give that up?
You’re Doing it for You
All to often we do things for other people. We put ourselves out to see other people succeed and be happy, and although it may make you feel good for a while, ultimately it will start wearing you down to the point where you don’t believe in yourself but you’re all for other people.
When you take the first few steps for doing something to benefit you, there will always be people who want to bring you down, depsite you helping them in the first place. Always being there for others but not putting yourself first will nearly always end up in a situation where people feel obligated to receive your help and support, and when then support is directed at yourself, they might throw a hissy fit or simply outright show that they aren’t happy.
I’ve done a few things recently which are for my own benefit rather than anyone elses. I’ve taken risks and put myself first, and it’s mostly paid off in my favour; being able to focus completely on bettering myself and my future felt so cleansing. However, there are a few people who haven’t taken my decision well, for one reason or another, but I’ve decided that my happiness is ultimately more important than someone who feels like because my focus has gone off them, that they’re now going to fail and it will be all my fault.
I’m sorry that I’m not a magic fairy godmother – I really am… but I’m living for me.
… But You Make Your Loved Ones Proud
I’m lucky to have a family and group of close friends who are super supportive of me. I’d do anything for them without a moments thought, and I know that they’d do exactly the same for me if needed.
However, even when we don’t agree on things, they’re always happy to let me do my own thing and learn from my mistakes; the important thing is they’re always there for me, and always proud of any way I try to better myself.
Even during those moments where giving up on something seems like the only option, they’re always there encouraging me, even if it wasn’t initially something that they fully agreed with. The thought of being able to make my family and friends proud? Surely that’s enough motivation for anyone?!
Giving up may seem like the easy option, but it’s always best to look on the flipside and really see how positive your perseverance and effort could be.
Excuse This Honesty 