Hundreds of thousands of dollars and countless failures later, I still don’t regret a single moment of going after my heart. I’ve stumbled, faced rejection, and even heard whispers from others labeling me “selfish” for choosing to invest in myself. But what those people never understood—and likely never will—is why following your heart is never selfish. It’s survival. It’s the foundation of any true success story.
We live in a world where playing it safe is the norm. Society loves comfort zones, and we’re expected to color within the lines. But let me ask you this—how far will you go by playing small? How will you ever take care of others if you can’t first master the art of taking care of yourself?
The Price of Not Going After Your Dreams
When I look back, I think of all the times I could have chosen comfort, mediocrity, or easy wins. I could have listened to the voices that told me it wasn’t worth it, that I should just settle. But every great thing that has come into my life, every ounce of progress I’ve made, is a direct result of choosing to risk it all for what I believe in.
Sure, it wasn’t easy. I’ve poured money, energy, and countless sleepless nights into ideas that flopped. But each failure taught me a new lesson, and following your heart is never selfish. It forced me to grow, adapt, and learn things I never would have discovered if I had stuck with the “safe” route. If I had chosen mediocrity, I wouldn’t have the vision I have today. And I certainly wouldn’t be able to help others reach their goals.
They Call It Selfish—But What’s More Selfish?
Some people will call you selfish for prioritizing your dreams. They’ll tell you that focusing on yourself is wrong, that you should focus on helping others first. But here’s the thing: how can you pour into others when your own cup is empty?
It’s a myth that selflessness is about sacrificing your own needs. In reality, true selflessness comes from filling your cup first. Following your heart is never selfish! When you grow, when you achieve, when you build yourself up, that’s when you’re in the best position to help others. What could be more selfish than denying your potential, settling for less, and expecting to support others with a half-hearted effort?
The Cost of Playing Small
Aspiring entrepreneurs and young professionals—this is for you. The world today is tougher than ever, and opportunities don’t come knocking unless you create them. You’re not here to blend in; you’re here to stand out. But if you’re waiting for permission to start living life on your terms, let me be blunt: no one’s going to give it to you.
The cost of playing small is everything. Every time you silence that voice inside urging you to go bigger, every time you settle for a paycheck instead of your purpose, you’re letting your future slip through your fingers. The truth is, failure isn’t the enemy. Comfort is.
Investing in Yourself is Non-Negotiable
When I reflect on the money I’ve spent and the failures I’ve endured, I don’t see loss. I see growth. I see invaluable lessons that have shaped me into someone capable of achieving what once seemed impossible. The real tragedy would have been never investing in myself—never betting on my potential because of fear.
So here’s my advice: don’t fear investing in yourself, whether it’s through time, money, or energy. If you don’t make that investment, who will? Yes, the road will be bumpy, and yes, you’ll have moments where you wonder if it’s worth it. But I promise you, in the end, the only regrets you’ll have are the risks you didn’t take.
Break Free From Mediocrity
As an aspiring entrepreneur or young professional, you have a choice to make. You can follow the well-worn path of least resistance, or you can forge your own. Choose the latter. Invest in your growth relentlessly, regardless of the voices that tell you it’s selfish. Ignore the mediocrity that tries to hold you back.
The world needs more people who dream big, who refuse to settle, and who believe in their potential enough to invest in it. Don’t let the fear of failure or judgment stop you from becoming the person you’re meant to be. Take the leap. The regrets you’re trying to avoid will only haunt you if you don’t.
True success isn’t about proving others wrong—it’s about proving yourself right. So, invest in yourself unapologetically. You owe it to yourself, and to the world, to show up as your best self.