Stand Your Ground: The Journey of Holding Onto My Standards

There have been countless moments in my life where people have tried to persuade me to lower my standards, to settle for less than what I truly desire. It's funny how those who don’t understand my vision often think they know better. They seem to believe that my dreams and aspirations are too lofty, that I should live within the confines of their comfort zones. But I’ve learned the hard way that I cannot give up my vision for the comfort of others.

I remember times when I genuinely wanted to lift others up, to encourage them to meet my standards because I saw potential in them. I thought, “If I can elevate my expectations, why can’t they?” But more often than not, this was met with resistance, and I found myself feeling frustrated and misunderstood. After some reflection, I came to a profound realization: those who can’t rise to meet your standards probably aren’t meant to be in your life.

It’s not just about wanting more for myself; it’s about staying true to my aspirations. I believe in pursuing my dreams relentlessly, even if it means walking this path alone. Often, people who don’t share the same goals as I do will never grasp what’s truly in my heart. They may profess to love me or see us as a perfect match, but if they aren’t willing to listen to my ambitions or engage in meaningful conversations about pursuing goals—whether theirs or mine—then we simply aren’t compatible.

I refuse to feel guilty for wanting what I want. It’s not just about dreaming; I’m actively pursuing those dreams. I always make an effort to share my ambitions with others, to gauge whether they can support my journey. However, I’ve encountered many who choose to misunderstand me and paint me as the villain for not conceding to their way of living.

Identifying the right people to surround yourself with is crucial. If you’re surrounded by those who resent your ambition or feel jealous of your journey, you’ll end up feeling like you’re not doing enough. This realization has been eye-opening for me. Despite my openness and honesty, I’ve been surprised at how many people dislike my refusal to lower my standards.

So, for anyone out there wondering if they should abandon their dreams for the sake of a relationship, I say: absolutely not. If you have a strong belief in yourself and are taking active steps towards your goals, then anyone who cannot support you has no place in your life—not even as a friend or a casual acquaintance. It’s essential to become comfortable with pursuing your unique journey, even if it means doing so alone.

Remember, not everyone will understand your path or believe in your dreams. But that shouldn’t deter you. Stay strong, keep going, and hold your head high. Your dreams are valid, and you deserve to pursue them without compromise.