I am starting to believe that being genuine to himself determines the worth of a man. Living up to other peoples expectations for your life is the quickest way to become unhappy. In the last two years I stoped trying to live up to the expectations for me set by my community. I spent 30 years living to please others. I was miserable. Depressed. Used women to anesthetise myself. I was on a career path I hated. I sucked at it and I dreaded it. I only did it because it was expected of me. I lived in a certain neighborhood because it was expected on me. If I didn't do it I would be shamed out of my culture. Shame is a mofo.
I couple years ago I decided to quit. I had to be true to myself. I had to start all over financially, career wise etc. I was ostracized from my family and my community. But I am finally starting to become truly at peace. I went back and picked up all the stuff I didn't do when I was younger ( better late than never right). I began training in a martial art. Hey BibleBelt you partially inspired me to start training after I found out you did MMA and posted videos. Thanks for that. I also got serious with the guitar. I always wanted to get good with that. I am looking to pick up another hobby now...maybe stand up idk.
It is not just a cliche guys! You become a lot happier as a person once you become genuine to yourself. Forget the money. I am poor now. But its okay because I have time to actually do my hobbies. I am not at work or school 24/7. The money will come. Hopefully lol.
Being true to yourself means knowing your strengths and weakness. Pursuing only things that you are passionate about whether they are lucrative or not. Pursuing your God given talents. When you are genuine to yourself, you can be poor and still be proud of the man you see in the mirror.