Today I want to talk about owning your own space. There is a big difference between respecting other people for what they've done and what they've achieved and owning your own space. In other words, is when you encounter an impressive person, remember that he or she is only another person. The fact that they've mastered their art, maybe exceptional in their field or happen to be in a high position of influence or very well known, at the end of the day, they are still people who live personal lives with their own problems and struggles. Whilst it’s important to have manners and remain respectful for all that they've achieved, you can't allow them to dominate you and expect you to defer to them in every situation.

If you've got something to offer, you stand your ground and you say your piece and if you happen to disagree or believe something different, you have as much right to your opinion as somebody who is well known in their particular field. Obviously, you're not going to argue with them about something that you don't know anything about but if you're sure of what you are talking about, then they need to have the respect for you and listen to you. If they expect you to respect them purely for who they are or their position rather than because they are very competent then the problem lies with them. Good people understand this and no matter how famous will be grounded and respectful of another’s experience and expertise.

I hope this makes sense. I'm going to end with a quote from the from Buddha, which I think is fantastic.

“Do not believe in anything simply because you've heard it. Do not believe in anything simply because it is spoken and rumoured by many, do not believe in anything simply because it is found written in books. Do not believe in anything merely on the authority of teachers and elders. Do not believe in traditions because they have been handed down for many generations. After observation and analysis, when you find that anything agrees with reason and is conducive to the good and benefit of one and all, then accept it and live up to it.”

This is exactly what I'm talking about in terms of owning your own space. Analyse and listen and it is imperative to take advice but then make your own decisions, take your own path, and trust your own instincts. No one can own you unless you let them, and no one knows you as well as you know yourself.

Please share this podcast if it adds value to your thinking as my experience is shared to help others get a little boost or insight into my lens of the world which has been an enjoyable life so far.

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