I've often heard people attribute someone's personality or circumstances solely to their environment, suggesting that their outcome was predetermined and they had no other choice. However, I strongly disagree with this notion. I believe that we are shaped by our own expectations and the actions we take to meet them. Our environment is something we must work with or overcome, rather than allowing it to hinder us. When I was younger, I was unaware that people felt this way or that they often became frustrated and gave up. Now that I'm aware of this, I reflect on my past and realize that I have always been driven by my own expectations, rather than external factors, although I have certainly faced challenges posed by the environment.
What does this mean? It means that I have experienced both successes and failures, but I have never attributed them to the environment or others. There were instances when my failures seemed insurmountable, and I found myself thinking, 'This is it, you've taken on more than you can handle, prepare for the worst.' Despite these thoughts, I didn't succumb to the environment. Instead, I became determined and took action, refusing to let circumstances defeat me. Another voice within me would emerge, saying, 'I won't allow myself to go down like this.' This mindset propelled me into action, often averting disaster, even if I didn't come out unscathed.
This mindset has been instrumental in my life, leading to remarkable achievements. It's not because I possess extraordinary intelligence. In my previous career in information systems/technology, I encountered individuals who were smarter than me in the field. However, the difference was that I wasn't afraid. While they hesitated to explore new technologies outside their comfort zone, I readily embraced change, abandoning the safety of outdated systems.
All of this stems from my childhood experiences. I made a conscious effort to compile these stories in a humorous manner. I hope that you will find them entertaining and that they impart valuable life lessons. Perhaps you will share them with others, adding your own improvements and passing them along. Ultimately, my desire is for you to find happiness, safety, and fulfillment in a way that is meaningful to you. Thank you for exploring my book. I wish you a fantastic day and a fulfilling week ahead.
JRF Witty 'Self-empowerment will take you as far as you dare to go' – JRF Witty
