What Really Matters to You?

I was having dinner with a group of friends the other night, and was asked a question, that made me reflect and truly think about how to answer with honesty and integrity. No sugar coating, no bullshitting, pure honest to goodness truth.

I am in the middle of a big book project, and have been pouring my heart and soul into this project for over two years. When I finally completed my manuscript, complete with professional editing and feedback, I felt proud of what I accomplished, and knew my book was going to help so many people break free from their own obstacles that hold them back. Helping others was my motivation.

Throughout my book, that highlights the many obstacles, life lessons and wisdom that comes with age and experience, I talk about standing up for what’s right for you, no matter what others think, say or do. To live with intention, integrity and faith, takes courage.

As Carl Schurz says… “Ideals are like stars. You will not succeed in touching them with your hands; but like the seafarer, you choose them as your guides and, following them, you will reach your destiny.”

When we know what matters deeply to us, life isn’t so overwhelming. We don’t focus on all the shit, instead we focus on how we intend to live.

So when I proceeded to tell my friends that I was at a complete standstill with my publisher, and how I will not give in to their demands, that will cause me to lose my integrity and diminish my story. They gave me a look of admiration.

I proceeded to tell them how I was asked to publish my story but I would need to use a phony name. In the publishing world it is called a “Pen Name.”

So this poses a great question, “Where do I take a stand?” I didn’t have to go far, because I knew from the tips of my toes all the way up to my head, I will not change my name. I own my story, the good, the bad and the ugly. I would not be me, if I didn’t believe that.

I went the self-publishing route, and pre-paid my publisher. They have been holding my money and my manuscript. I have been holding onto my truth and faith.

When we can trust ourselves in this way, life gets easier. We don’t get bogged down on what others think. We have an inner knowing and trust what we feel is right. It makes us fight harder to get to where we want to be. When we know in our heart what we feel is right, that’s when we take action with confidence.

Think about something in your life that requires you to take a deeper look. Can you summon the courage within to take a stand on what matters most to you regardless of what others are telling you?