Most times we get really carried away and lost, without realising how far gone we are.

I started my blog because I wanted to share my poetry and photography and just really share my opinions on certain issues.

But somewhere, somehow, I just fell into a daze of routine which obviously became boring and old, fast.

Though I am still trying to get back on track, thought it would be nice to share some of my realisations; for those who want to start a blog (and everyone else).

Do not succumb to the pressure of safety/the need for approval; Do YOU! I know everyone says it, but it is the truth. The worst thing you can do to yourself is live your life based on “not wanting to offend anyone”. Or through someone’s ascribed checklist of approval, you will suffocate! Whatever you do in this life, someone somewhere will be unhappy about it. Someone will take offence; it won’t be deemed appropriate by some people. I mean even your mere existence might be offensive to some people. SO, DO YOU! No one can do it better

THE MOST DANGEROUS THING IN LIFE IS PLAY IT SAFE -CASEY NEISTAT

It is not a competition: the fastest way to fall down the “rabbit hole” is to compete with others. Your journeys didn’t start at the same time, and assuming it did, you are still very different; even identical twins can’t strive at the same pace. Comparing yourself is a self-destructive habit. I can understand and appreciate the need to set goals and use certain people as a parameter for growth, but then you want to skip the hard work and jump to the success; then you are in trouble.

Stick to your thing: It is so easy to feel “left out” or “odd”; the need to go with the flow and trend can be quite consuming, especially when you do not get the same reaction as the stuff “in vogue”. Think of yourself like a Glenfiddich 50 years old (A rare, sought-after, and historic whiskey); it takes a certain level of maturity and an acquired taste bud to really relish it. Those who know what it is (no matter how few) value it, so you don’t need to try being a watered-down version of yourself just to fit in. Value is not a thing of quantity, but of quality.

“Always be yourself, express yourself, have faith in yourself, do not go out and look for a successful personality and duplicate it.” -Bruce Lee

Ask yourself “why?”The biggest mistake anyone can make is to start up something, anything for the sole purpose of “popularity”. LOL! That, my friend, is the fastest way to lose yourself; most times people do not realise popularity does not equate happiness and that it is hard work as well. There is a big difference between making a name for yourself because of your hard work (your reputation precedes you) and putting in hard work mainly so people can know your name. It tends to make people greedy and look for shortcuts.

“Do not yearn to be popular; be exquisite. Do not desire to be famous; be loved. Do not take pride in being expected; be palpable, unmistakable.” ― C. JoyBell C.

It is okay to feel “lost”: As humans, we all get drained out now and again; we run low on inspiration, or we forget why we started something. That is okay. All you have to do is go back to the drawing board. Think of yourself like a mobile phone; you need to recharge, you can’t keep giving out without refuelling, no one is inexhaustible. So, take time to remember yourself and keep learning.

Set realistic goals: Do not play yourself. Know your capacity and take things in your stride; set goals that are realistic and progressive, take it a step at a time. You can follow the S.M.A.R.T formula (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely). Live your life at your pace!

It takes time!!!! Nothing happens overnight.

Success is a healthy mixture of persistence, hard work, positive attitude, diligence, commitment, tenacity, and everything in between.

You are good enough.

If you could start it, then you can finish it.

Stay Shining

Photo Credit: Unique_Personas

Disclaimer: These are all opinions based on my experiences and understanding. Feel free to disagree or agree and share your opinions as well.