25th October 2025
My life improved dramatically when I realized that it’s not my responsibility to change the narrative that other people have about me or what they think about me.
One of my favorite fables brings this lesson to life:
A man and his son were bringing their donkey to the market.
As they were walking along the path, a man passed them and said: “You fools, what is a Donkey for but to ride upon?”
So the man put the boy on the donkey and continued. They passed a group of men, one of whom said: “See that lazy youngster, he lets his father walk while he rides.”
So the man ordered his boy to get off, and got on himself. They passed two women, one of whom said to the other: “Shame on that lazy lout to let his poor little son trudge along.”
So the man took his boy up with him on the donkey. People began to jeer: “Aren’t you ashamed of yourself for overloading that poor donkey?”
So the man and boy got off and carried the donkey on their shoulders. As they crossed a bridge, it kicked loose, fell over the side, and drowned.
“That will teach you,” said an old man who had followed them:
“Please all, and you will please none.”
At every step in your journey, there will be people who feel the need to voice their opinion on your actions and vision:
They’ll say it makes no sense,
They’ll laugh that you’re on the wrong path,
They’ll tell you to be more realistic,
They’ll question your every move,
But remember the lesson of the fable: If you listen to everyone—if you try to please everyone—you will please no one.
No matter what you do, there’s going to be someone who doesn’t like it, and that’s ok.
Stop allowing their narrative to impact your life.
Do you, be yourself, and live according to your values.
Taking the reins isn’t always easy, but it’s absolutely essential to transforming your self-image and, as a result, transforming your life.
By boldly stepping up and becoming the captain of your ship, you can steer it in a direction that will bring you more happiness and fulfillment.
Follow your own narrative and stay blessed forever.