Don't Be Afraid to Get a Little Crazy
We're often told to follow the rules, do what we're told, and for goodness sake, don't make waves. But in today's hyper-competitive economy, isn't that a surefire path to mediocrity?
Look at those that we celebrate - from Thomas Edison to Elon Musk; from Sheryl Sandberg to Tony Robbins. The ones that make history have one thing in common: they're not afraid to get a little crazy.
The breakaway musical success of Billie Eilish is a recent example. Her style and singing are instantly recognizable and deeply distinctive. She sets the trend instead of following it. Her talent is incredible, to be sure, but what makes her irresistible is her unique and creative approach. In contrast, many wildly talented vocalists who blend in and play other people's music currently perform in wedding bands instead of massive arenas.
Shouldn't not being crazy enough be the real fear? We may think we're playing it safe but run the significant risk of painful regret. Nearly every interview of people at the end stages of life reveals a deep longing for the risks they never took, the shots the never attempted. We're not on this planet to follow other people's rules, rather to share our creative voice with others and leave a legacy of progress.
Personally, I don't think the goal should be to live our entire lives without ever visiting the penalty box.
The hallmark of those that achieve greatly and leave the biggest mark on the world is a willingness to balk conventional wisdom, defy traditions, and yes get a little crazy at times. It's those oddball ideas that drive progress and fuel meaningful change.
Inside you right now is an unorthodox idea that can unlock amazing results. In fact, you probably have a baker's dozen. So, why let the restrictive voice of others confine your creative genius from shining through? If you allow your wonky ideas to surface, you may just uncover fresh possibilities. You'll at least be glad that you refused to have your creative voice silenced by the trembling masses.
In the words of German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, "Those who were seen dancing were thought to be insane by those who could not hear the music." But those that dance are the ones that are remembered; they're the ones that make history.
So, give yourself permission to get a little crazy this week. Realize that your nontraditional ideas may, in fact, be your best. It's time to let your hair down and let your creativity shine. It's time to dance like nobody's watching.
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