A few days ago I posted something on my facebook page that seemed to resonate with several people. My post stated,
"Be careful who you share your dreams with." I'm speaking for myself when I say I have learned that everyone
will not be happy with the decisions you make in your life. There have been several people in my life that have not agreed with the things I've done like quitting my "good county job" (although there was nothing
really good about it) to run
BSJ full-time, or about my decision to go natural and dreadlock my hair because I realized the chemicals in perms were destroying my hair among other things, and choosing to move to Nigeria when my husband received an amazing job offer there (a once in a lifetime type of experience). These experiences have shaped my life, not theirs and so I've learned to let God guide me in my journey, and not the opinion of others. When I say be careful who you share your dreams with, I'm speaking of negative people, naysayers, people who smile in your face and talk behind your back, and most importantly people who believe your dreams are too big because
they are afraid of dreaming big and living outside the box!
I've learned over the years who will and will not judge my aspirations. I know who I can share certain information with, and who I can't (even in my own family). I've realized that everyone doesn't get the artist, self-employment, bohemian, spur of the moment person that I am, and that's okay with me. But what I will not tolerate is people who try to stunt my growth and my journey with their words and opinions.
I'm not letting
anyone steal my dreams...
be free,
Myisha
Your words are the words of many women...people who have decided to "Buck the System." You are so right in saying that many people find entrepreneurs threatening. But we are also hope. If it weren't for us, there would be no jobs or ways to volunteer. All companies, whether big or small began from somewhere. One day, those who doubt you will want to embrace you. Remember that.
ReplyDeleteMyisha, I so understand. Right now I'm going on my 23rd month of unemployment (2 yrs); I have enjoyed being off tremendously and even though financially it has been trying, I am so not wanting to even go back into the working world. I'm scared to death because I have so many needs that need to be taken care of; it took at least a year and a half for me to even get my mind around what I really want to do in life. I took up painting, collaging and next month I'm going to Fashion Institute of Technology for jewelry making & photography classes. This past 6 months, I have dug deeper into my spirit and I realize all the trappings of work really dampen your spirit. I miss the camaraderie of co-workers, but I certainly do not miss the politics. After working 20 plus years and now having to start all over again due to losing everything through no fault of my own, I am not in the majority who believe that a "good job" is the answer. I'm praying that the good lord lets me have this one last summer to cultivate my passion and bring it to fruition as my calling.
ReplyDeleteWow Nyanja, I loved everything that you said, and you ate so right! You can't share with everyone, even family. I like the precious commentor Moni have been unemployed for almost a year this June, and like you Myisha I have always been a free spirit! I have decided that I no longer want to " punch" a clock, but I want a job that I am happy to do. A job that they smile when they walk in the door. Why not start my own business! Iam the first to admit that I haven't used my off time productively, and this I HAVE to stop! Because this is my journey! I love the fact that you lived in Nigeria and made your own choices. I so love that. I've always said that society put these conditions us , that we have to get these corporate jobs and live the life. But if I had it my way, I would float around and do jobs that I choose. I have always been a free spirit and I intend to live my life that way!
ReplyDeleteMyisha, thank you for being a committed entrepreneur, cyber sister/mentor, and brilliant blogger! I appreciate you and ALL you do. Keep on encouraging others!
ReplyDeleteOmg Myisha sorry about the typos! I typed this on my I phone and I didn't proof read it. By the way, I received my bracelets! I love them.
ReplyDeleteI have enjoyed reading ALL of these comments! Love it!
ReplyDelete@Glenda love what you said.."Those who doubt you will want to embrace you."
@Moni I will keep you in prayer and I wish you the best with your new venture jewelry making and photography...2 of my fave things ;)
@Rochelle Yes! Be happy...that's what it's all about and just shake your head at the naysayers :)
@Holly. Awwwww thanks cyber sis...you're the best!
I'm learning that all the dreams we have in life are the work that has been placed inside of us. I think many of us are at a point where we understand that the job and the title is settling for the dreams and aspirations we have for ourselves. It is totally freeing to learn that there is more than one path that leads to your dreams and goals. It may not be how everyone else does it but it's your story your journey. I like when Robert Frost says, "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I took the one less traveled by. And that has made all the difference."
ReplyDelete