Personal Agency

My siblings and I were raised in a no-pain-no-gain, fix your own mistakes blue collar home. Nobody was catering to us and, although my parents might argue that, coddling our feelings was absolutely off the table.  I made a lot of mistakes and course corrections along the way, but I put myself out there and developed some valuable life lessons, resiliency, and much-needed grit to live in this world.   So, it is no wonder that I am a strong proponent of personal agency and delayed gratification as the keys to a satisfying life.

Are we playing it too safe?  Some people need to be reminded that we live in a free society. We have a lot of different choices available to us.  If you don’t feel free one has to ask themselves why? While I empathize with those who are less fortunate, we shouldn’t be blind to that fact that practical philosophy for physical, mental, and financial health do exist.  

We must always believe we can write our own destiny. I know too many people who have not made a go of it.  They will not make the necessary changes to fulfill their desires and destinies.  I’m curious about that and it frustrates me sometimes.  As Zig Ziglar quoted, ‘people don’t wander around and find themselves at the top of Mount Everest.’  Every choice you make will create an outcome. If you don’t like your outcomes you have to make other choices. 

Taking matters into our own hands requires a will to do so.  Believing that you are inherently deserving of privileges or special treatment sets you up for a lifetime of struggle. ‘You owe me’ is not a good mantra to have.  I’ve learned I cannot live someone else’s life for them.

 

Am I the only one?