Do you ever feel motivated to prove someone wrong? I know I do. It’s something that often lingers in my subconscious.
In the eyes of many, I am very fortunate, and I won’t deny it—GOD has been ever faithful to me. I grew up with the mindset that if I wanted something, I should go after it. While I still hold onto that belief, it’s now more refined; I’ve learned to chase only what truly matters. My parents wisely taught me, at just the right time, that “it’s not everything you want that you will get.”
Even with that grounding, I found myself needing to prove a point to someone—let’s call them “Blinkers”. Before I pursued my master’s degree, Blinkers belittled the school I had chosen. His remarks stung deeply, making me feel inadequate. It was as if my decision to attend a school outside the “top three” meant I wouldn’t amount to much. I understood his words were probably intended as motivation but the way they landed made me determined to prove him wrong. I decided I would be successful without being in the same sector as him.
GOD, however, has a way of humbling me quickly! 😁 After completing my degree, I found myself working in the same field as Blinkers. Over time, I chose to forgive him, letting go of the bitterness I once felt. Eventually, when I considered making a significant career shift, his advice mattered to me again. We talked it through, and I chose to make the leap. Whether he was happy for me remains a mystery.
One day, someone casually mentioned that Blinkers had said, “Isn’t it HerSplendidThoughts? She’ll come back.” That comment hit me and wrenched my heart. It resurfaced old wounds, reigniting my drive to prove him wrong. I never asked him if he actually said it, but the possibility was enough to fuel my determination. Yet, when I considered another career move. This time, a friend asked a question that stopped me in my tracks: “Are you doing this for him or for you?”
That was my wake-up call. I realized I couldn’t let someone else’s words dictate my life. My career decisions should stem from my own goals, fulfillment, and purpose—not a desire to prove a point. Even if a move seemed like a downgrade to others, what mattered most was my satisfaction and growth. I might end up in the same field, space, or even organization as Blinkers, but that would not diminish who I am nor would it validate his beliefs or comments.
So darling, take the step you feel is right for you, no matter what others think. It’s never too early or too late to chase your dreams. Most importantly, don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s. Progress is deeply personal—own it.
With loving smiles,
Her Splendid Thoughts
Her Splendid Thoughts 