Going through school, university and the typical education system we learn that we have to get permission to do something. If we want to do a project we have to ask someone first if it fits the grade standards. If we want to do specific coursework, we must make sure that it suits the class topics and so on. We’re trained to ask for permission.
Life is not like that though. We don’t need permission to create something fantastic, to start a new movement, to make a change. It’s an important realization for me, especially at times when I lack faith and I feel that there’s nothing I can do. The truth is, the reality is malleable and you can do anything you want with it. It doesn’t mean that you will succeed in changing it, but the fact that
It’s true that 90% of startups fail and only 10% of them succeed. It’s completely irrational to start one knowing the statistics. However, once you realize that the idea is not just about the money, but about the meaning of the work you do. If there’s only 10% chance you’ll succeed, but it’s 10x more worthwhile doing that than just working somewhere – go for it! Trying to change the status quo is definitely not easy and not for everyone, but it’s an exhilarating choice.
The world doesn’t change by its own. It’s changed by the people who don’t wait to get permissions. The people who go out and do magnificent things on their own accord. As Margaret Mead said: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has”.
Throughout my short life, I’ve learned that you don’t need permission to make a change. There are hundreds of things that you can and should do. As Seth Godin says – go make a ruckus.