From an early age, high achievers are taught to sacrifice independent thought for a good grade. We’re taught that compliance will be rewarded by being picked. And the biggest pick for many kids is the approval that comes from a famous college (or the improv group that’s running auditions at said famous college).
The Practice: Shipping Creative Work
I can remember how a grade school classmate used to think independently than the rest of us. But time and time again, the system wants him to comply, and so he did.
Because the only way to thrive in the system is to abide by its rules, isn’t it?
Perhaps, the hardest lesson I learned after spending 19 years of my life in school is this:
It’s important to develop independent thinking and foster creativity even if it means you have to fail.
Because the school is supposed to be the safest place to fail. And within its walls, you’ll learn how to make it better when the stakes are higher.
So you don’t have to wait for others to pick you.
You have to pick yourself first, even if it means you are not like everyone else.
Because it’s always the independent thinker who stands out, not the yes-man.
You can download a PDF copy of my FREE eBook on what I learned about life after spending 19 years in school here.
jessa 