As Good As The Best

I've been reflecting for years on the self-confidence of Walt Whitman and the concept of establishing healthy self-esteem by embracing equality.

What I've learned so strongly over the years of both being an entrepreneur and working aside entrepreneurs in a wide range of industries is how valuable genuine self-love and self-confidence is.

When you meet somebody truly great, insanely talented and special and full of spark you admire… in your own unique way, you have that too.

They might be a billion times better at what they do than you, but the trick is to discover what your particular flavor is and execute it with belief in yourself.

We are all different, yes. Copying somebody else is as lame as it gets.

Being inspired by somebody else bringing their dreams into fruition should inspire you to do the same.

But meeting people and treating them like equals is a must.

I attribute so much of my success and networking abilities to acting non-chalant around big league people. Because deep down, I know that though they are great, I am too.

Though they are incredible, I have that potential within me as well.

When I first starting freelancing more seriously at age twenty, I recall a dear friend and talented music producer raving about his friend, a "really, really, REALLY big deal."

This guy thought the world of his friend and he had quite the reputation for being talented, hardworking, and rather exceptional.

On my way to meet this impressive man, my car broke down in a Kroger parking lot and he had to meet me. I pulled out my jumper cables, jumped my car, and we carried on to our meeting.

This man was confident and obviously successful. He thought highly of himself and had the respect of those around him.

Though I treated him with respect, I did not treat him with adoration or awe. Though I admired him, I did not stare wide-eyed at this man or place him on a pedestal. I met this great man with respect and relative indifference, and again and again that has made all the difference.

I am also an only child who had two extremely loving and respectful parents. I spent a lifetime with those more talented, mature, and experienced than I.

I learned to not treat those "above" you like they were in fact above you.

When you treat people with respect and kindness but also carry your own weight, that is what gains immediate respect.

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