They’re all just big rocks. Layers and layers of stone. Peaks and valleys. Once you’ve seen one, you’ve seen them all. False.
Ask any hiker who has broken in at least one pair of hiking boots and those statements will be shot down – fast. Each peak may have similar attributes, but most definitely are not identical.
Time and weather have influenced the character of each and every one. Springs that beg for an opening find their way up and out of the rock and the waters that flow down the surface sculpt each one into its own unique kind. Collectively and from a distance, those that make up the ranges that we often marvel over appear to be “just peaks and valleys”.
Upon further inspection, one can find traits that offer joy, wonder, adversity, and challenge or even all of the above. Either way, the exploration provides opportunities to grow and can leave a lasting impression given the chance to gain acquaintance. Again, we’re talking about the individual peak here.
For a lot of my life I think that it’s safe to say that I have had a desire to “go big”. Most of the ideas I get excited about require putting myself out there and taking risks. The saying goes, “the greater the risk, the greater the reward“. However, with that comes the likelihood that there will be some feelings of inadequacy, hesitation, and questioning competence. All of that is normal in any pursuit of innovation or groundbreaking endeavor, but in the age we live in with a larger pool of competition in the cyber bullpen, these negative thoughts are way more prevalent.
We live in a very strange point in time where technology gives each of us unlimited access to a microphone and podium. To reach the world in an instant, if only we desire to do so. Some take the stand and have great impact by utilizing the privilege well, while others hog the mic with not much value to add. In any respect, there is a lot out there and for those willing to enter the race, it is very easy to fall prey to the downward comparison spiral.
When growing my social media presence was on the forefront of my mind, I was constantly browsing and wondering if I was gathering all the right ingredients for the formula that seemed to work for some. Tweaking this or that to see if it got more traffic. Wondering why some pages seemed to grow so exorbitantly when I personally found the content rather dumb. It was exhausting.
Like I’ve mentioned in earlier episodes and posts, the longer I stepped away from all of that noise, the more I’ve struggled to get plugged back in. In all honesty, it kind of churns my stomach to see the volume of memes and “POV: this or that” overlayed on what used to be in my opinion, good content. It is obvious to me that the monetization of social accounts and influence are pushing creative originality to the back seat. Just my opinion.
Whether there is any truth to my opinion listed prior is irrelevant. I am constantly faced with the comparison and thoughts that my work is not appealing or good enough. Even worse, maybe I’m not either! I know for a fact that I’m not the only one who feels this. I mean thirty minutes on any job board or social site confirms the sea of straws that are being grasped for. Self-esteem is under attack.
So, what the heck does any of this have to do with mountains?
Let’s revisit the opening message. No mountain is exactly like another. They are all similar, have comparable attributes, and from a distance blend in, but they are all unique. When examined closer and seen for what they have to offer, they are appreciated. Different people like different hikes for all different reasons.
You are a mountain. Individual. Unique. Created for a purpose. Defined by your experiences and shaped by the storms that you have weathered.
I want to be crystal clear here, regardless of the lies spreading like wildfire – you are not just another peak in the range. You don’t have to conform to fit in or be appreciated. You are not just another number. You are not just another resume. You are not just another expense on someone’s bottom line. You are an individual that has something to offer someone. You are valued – especially by those who love you and know you intimately.
It may not bring you hundreds or thousands of likes. You may never become famous or be compensated for your effort. But if you are true to yourself and hold fast to your distinction, your genuineness will be recognized for what it is by those who truly appreciate it.
I want to stay camped here, personally.
You are a mountain.
-Mitty