“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.”
~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

What this quote means to entrepreneurs:
I’m sure you’ve heard this before: “If your friends all jumped off a cliff, would you do it too?”

We live in a world where the pressure to fit in and be like every one else is very strong. However, not only is that the worst thing you could do you for your life, it can be the death of your business.

Businesses that are successful are those that set themselves apart from the pack. Think Apple. They don’t approach computing the way all the other computer companies do, and they’ve built an avid (dare I say rabid?) following.

When you own your awesome, you are your essential self regardless of what the world around you encourages you to be.

Yes, this means you often have to take out the virtual machete and carve out your own path. But, it is your path, the path you were meant to walk, and therefore the jungle vines in your way will melt like butter before your machete.

What’s interesting is what follows … your tribe. When you are your authentic self, boldly walking your path and shining your light, people will follow you. And that, my friends, is how you grow your creative, authentic and profitable business!

I encourage you to resist the siren call of the lemming. Stand up. Be yourself. The world needs you to share your unique gifts and shine your individual light.

Now It’s Your Turn:
What are your thoughts on Emerson’s quote? Do you agree with my interpretation? If you do, what steps have you taken to own your awesome and forge your own way in the world? If you don’t, please share your counter points! Either way, please share your wisdom in a comment below.