We live in a very fickle world these days. If you ask the ordinary youth these days – what they would do for fame, it’s quite alarming. Just hang out in L.A. a bit and you might even get more shocked. Maybe, it’s the glamour – the image of being important that attracts them. But, then you see the handful examples of the true legends our society creates…you tend to second-guess if that’s life you really want to live.

Take for example, Michael Jackson, a true musical legend by any degree. A guy – whose music resonates through many generations and will be remembered for many more. If you asked anyone including the media what they thought of him last week – the words they would use would be “weird, bizarre, etc.” And they would bring up the scandals, the negatives (true or not)…but that’s what society thought defined him.

Now, unfortunately, he passes away – and the entire world finally gives this person the respect for his talent.  I just find it awkward that it takes society a persons death to finally recognize the positives one brings. I can also see how being in these surroundings the definition of “real” could easily fade.

It’s amazing that when you do live this life – whether you’re guilty or not of an allegation – you’ve already forever tainted your image. Doesn’t look all that glamorous of a life to me.

The loss of this legend – gives all of us a true awakening that we should appreciate life and never take it for granted. And, may also shed us light on how being a “superstar” maybe a pretty lonely place up top.

I’ll probably have to say not only in the world of business – but in the grand scheme of things…in order to thrive in today’s society – you have to grow a thick skin. In most instances, we do live in a world that can provide ample negative energy. And if all you do is – dwell on that energy – you basically become a weaker person and move further away from your goals. Countless times, I’ve heard people tell me that I was going to fail or that I shouldn’t do X, Y or Z (I’ve got plenty of those examples in my book). Or, more or less distract me from the end game, which was pursuing something I really wanted to do (let that be in business or personal).

So, one of the things I did very early on in life is grow a very thick skin. Some people live in a world of pessimism and that translates to the negative energy they exude. I like to live in a world of optimism – which is if I believe I want to do something – I’m not going to let anyone stop me for doing it.

That independence leads to confidence which becomes the only voice that matters. I encourage all of you to follow your heart’s desire on any matter – and never let anyone stop you from doing what you love. It might be painful – but after a while – the skin becomes thick enough to handle anything…

It works for me.