"I live to succeed, not to please you or anyone else "

This quote is all about prioritizing your own goals and values over trying to make everyone else happy. It's about setting your sights on what success means to you personally, rather than molding your life to fit the expectations or desires of others. Essentially, it’s a call to stay true to yourself and your ambitions.

Historically, this mindset has often been a driving force for many of the world’s most influential figures. Think of someone like Steve Jobs. He was famously known for his focus on innovation and excellence, sometimes at the expense of pleasing others. Jobs wasn’t looking to win a popularity contest—he was laser-focused on creating revolutionary products and building one of the most successful companies in the world. His commitment to his own vision, rather than to the approval of others, was key to his immense success.

Here’s a practical example: Consider a young woman named Jane who dreams of becoming a professional artist. Her parents, however, want her to pursue a career in medicine because they believe it’s more stable and prestigious. Jane faces a tough choice. If she decides to please her parents, she may find herself in medical school, living someone else’s dream and feeling unfulfilled. But if she listens to her own heart, she dedicates herself to her art, works tirelessly on her craft, and eventually holds her own gallery shows. She’s not only happier but also successful on her own terms.

To apply this wisdom in your life, start by reflecting on what success truly means to you. It might help to jot down your goals and dreams—big and small. Ask yourself if the path you're on is leading you towards those goals, or if it's just leading you towards the approval of others. It's easy to get caught up in what society or our loved ones expect from us, but real fulfillment comes from living a life aligned with your own values and ambitions.

Imagine you're at a crossroads where you can either take a well-trodden path that everyone says is right for you, or a winding trail that calls to your heart. It’s a scary choice, right? Fear of disappointing others or fear of the unknown can hold you back. But picture this: If you follow that winding trail, you're likely to encounter challenges, sure—but also breathtaking views, unique experiences, and the deep satisfaction of knowing you stayed true to yourself.

Here's a relatable scenario. Think about a high school student, Alex, who's passionate about music and wants a career in it. His friends and family keep telling him to choose a "safer" path, like engineering or law. Alex spends sleepless nights weighing his options. He even considers enrolling in a pre-law program just to make everyone happy. But in the end, he decides to follow his gut. He joins a music school, spends countless hours practicing, networking, and performing. Years down the line, Alex isn't just a musician—he's living his dream, performing on stages across the world. His journey wasn’t easy, but it was authentic, and that made all the difference.

So, next time you find yourself torn between your own aspirations and others' expectations, remember this quote. Center yourself, trust your instincts, and pursue your version of success. It won’t always be easy, and not everyone will understand your choices—but ultimately, it's your life, and you've got to live it on your own terms.