Embracing Authenticity, A Personal Reflection
In a world that often pushes us towards conformity, the words of E.E. Cummings resonate deeply: “To be nobody but yourself in a world which is doing its best day and night to make you like everybody else means to fight the hardest battle which any human being can fight and never stop fighting.” This sentiment has been a guiding principle for me as I have navigated the journey of building this business.
As my children grew, I often found myself quoting variations of this in letters to them as they embarked on new adventures—camps, colleges, and other meaningful experiences. It has been a constant reminder, posted above every desk I’ve occupied for the past decade, of the importance of staying true to oneself.
Recently, many friends, clients, and acquaintances have asked how I started this business. My answer often circles back to the belief that remaining true to ourselves naturally leads us to what we love. While hard work and a bit of luck have played their roles, the true challenge lies in resisting distractions that promise an easier path.
I don’t claim to have reached the pinnacle of success; rather, I find success in my daily commitment to authenticity. Each day presents a new opportunity to embrace my journey and recognize that success is not merely about the pieces sold—though I appreciate the chance to create more. It's about how I balance my business, family, and friendships.
Over time, I’ve come to understand that success is distinct from happiness. While happiness can be fleeting, I strive for success in my life—success in my business, fulfilling relationships, and a healthy, happy love life. These elements intertwine to form a rich tapestry of what success means to me.
This past weekend, my father ran the NYC Marathon as the oldest person ever to complete the race. Reflecting on the man he was when I was a child and the man he is now has made me appreciate how far we both have come. His determination and tenacity inspire me, just as I hope to inspire my children. He began running marathons at fifty and went on to compete as an Iron Man world champion, proving that it’s never too late to start anew.
If we allow ourselves to dream big and realize that the fear of failure often holds us back, we can achieve great things. Defining success as the attempts we make and the lessons we learn will undoubtedly lead us to greater accomplishments.
Thank you for letting me share what’s on my mind. Here’s to embracing authenticity and dreaming big dreams.
