13 answers
Greg’s Answer
Yasemin’s Answer
I hope this helps!
I wish you the best!
Geoffrey’s Answer
If you want to be a model to others, you must first be a model to yourself. Who do you want to be? What do you want to do? Most important, what do you want to change? Don't pick something generic. You need to look for something specific where you can make a difference now, then use that momentum to find and do the next thing. Can't find anything? Start small. If you see someone in a tough spot, smile at them. If the cashier is having a bad day, be patient. All you really need to do is to notice the things you wish jerks would stop doing and do the opposite and you're already making the world a better place.
Others have mentioned the problem with overcoming the odds. Nobody overcomes every challenge. Can you imagine a superhero movie where even Superman never faces a struggle? Pretty boring. Recovering from setbacks and finding a different direction, though, that's a learning experience that will help you grow. And it will help you provide a model for those who actually need one, those who are struggling.
Before you can change the world, you have to change yourself. You have to become a person who does things a little differently so you can get different results. Look for ways to make little changes that add up to big changes and you'll change the world every day.
Geoffrey recommends the following next steps:
La-Toya’s Answer
Yes! It first starts with you. Changes in the way you think and approach your challenges is key. Fixed v. Growth Mindset: Fixed: Believes that knowledge and skills are fixed traits that can’t be change. Avoids challenges/doesn’t like to fail. Blames others for failures. Doesn’t attempt to improve/change. Growth: Believes that knowledge/skills can be developed with hard work. Sees failures as a chance to grow. Seek opportunities to improve/change. Not afraid to fail.
La-Toya recommends the following next steps:
Luis’s Answer
Will I overcome all the odds against me?
Dear Edwin,
You ask, "Will I overcome all the odds against me?" Maybe - that's my answer.
The fact is I have never met anyone who has overcome all the challenges in their life. But, that doesn't mean you don't try. And it doesn't mean you won't have great successes in your life and career. It just means that life and the universe have a funny way of constantly throwing up new and, at times, insurmountable challenges. Your job as a human being is to constantly struggle to improve and be the best possible person you can be in your time on this planet.
You say you want to be a role model for future generations. That's great. Start, though, by being an inspiration to your family, friends and classmates. And then build on that success and focus on the people outside your immediate circle.
Edwin, I grew up poor. My mother was a single parent. I faced a lot of challenges. I have overcome many but not all of my challenges. For instance, I have been an adult for more than thirty years and yet I still struggle with eating right and exercising well. Imperfection is part of the human condition. So, too, is the drive to improve.
Best,
Luis
PS I agree with Ms. Fletcher's suggestions above for next steps. She provides sensible and concrete advice.
Luis recommends the following next steps:
Thomas’s Answer
Additional concrete questions would include: How can I become a better interviewee? What are the technical skills I can learn that would help me become a better job candidate, improve my odds of success? Do I need to become a web designer or programmer to do the kinds of projects that interest me? Biotech labwork? Do I prefer working alone or with diverse teams? Am I a big picture person or do I like to get down in the weeds to solve a problem? Do sales or customer support interest me? Who are my role models in music, the performing arts, politics, or among the rock star entrepreneurs we keep hearing about? Who do I want to be and who do I want to reach?
There are many exciting questions we can pose to help narrow down the universe of possibilities. Your social media profile can be enhanced, from Linkedin to Instagram to many others. You can learn to tell your story in a way that is appealing and yours alone. Take heart, practice optimism and genuine enthusiasm, and keep working at being a better learner.
Anthony’s Answer
Karlene’s Answer
Karlene recommends the following next steps:
Lara’s Answer
You can absolutely overcome anything as long as you have the burning desire to succeed, a positive mindset, and consistent habits.
Having daily, short-term and long-term goals is a must. For each goal, give yourself a deadline and take on challenges as each day comes.
I strongly recommend the “ 7 checklist items for success” by Jean G. Mathurin, M. D. This is one of the best books I have read on how to stay motivated when I felt overwhelmed thinking all odds were against me. This book helped me significantly and I learned to start every day with gratitude and a focus on my daily goal. Another book I recommend to you is "Thinking and Growing Rich". Everyday complete tasks that will bring you closer to your short-term goal which will eventually help you achieve your long-term goal! Stay positive and never lose hope. You will get there!
Mrs. Raj’s Answer
Ronald’s Answer
Hello Edwin,
I want to share with you what my former teacher instilled in me. It is a general statement, however I sincerely believe it carries a lot of weight as it relates to life and career success. "Those who want it the most make it." It comes down to determination, hard work, and asking for help. Also, success has plenty to do with happiness, your happiness. I would like you to watch a TEDX video by the author Shaun Anchor. His book is called The Happiness Advantage.
Ronald recommends the following next steps:
Wayne’s Answer
Anupam Das
Anupam’s Answer
Anupam recommends the following next steps: