Boy, I tell you, a whole lot of shade (disparaging remarks or expressions, often made on the sly) gets directed at people who make a conscious decision to go against what some people have determined is “the grain,” particularly concerning relationships.

Those who strive to keep others in their self-imposed boxes go to great lengths to get their points across.

They create negative, stereotypical and generalizing memes, and videos, and what not, all with the intent to control other people’s behavior.

And you know what? The shade takes a number of other forms and isn’t limited to relationships.

When you share your ideas, dreams and goals, and a supposedly well-meaning friend, family member or coworker says,

“Oh, really? You want to do what?”

“You want to go where?

“You think that’s a good idea?”

And here’s the big one:

You???

The shade is epic, yet despite all the negativity, those of us who dare to make our own choices and decisions must continue to press forward.

The shade? The negativity? The doubts of others?

Honey, just shake it off, and live.

Because living well is the best revenge.

When you see the silly videos and the disparaging memes, and when you hear the negative comments, don’t fret.

Give them your best mysterious smile, and keep it moving.

You can smile, because you know where you’re headed and you know what you’re going to do:

Succeed.

 

Be bold enough to live life on your terms, and never, ever apologize for it. Go against the grain, refuse to conform, take the road less traveled instead of the well-beaten path. Laugh in the face of adversity, and leap before you look. Dance as though EVERYBODY is watching. March to the beat of your own drummer. And stubbornly refuse to fit in.”

― Mandy Hale

 

The Swirl World Team is committed to sharing 365 days of inspiration in 2015. Our goal is to help you stay motivated and inspired by bringing you positive, uplifting images and corresponding thoughts.

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Copyright ©2015 Michelle Matthews Calloway, ASwirlGirl™, The Swirl World™, The Swirl World Podcast™, The Swirl World Inspiration Daily™, Swirl Nation™, All rights reserved. Photo used with permission.