I’ll Take Jealousy for $100, Alex

Posted by Tisha Tolar on November 3, 2008

It’s a harsh topic for a Monday morning but it has been on my mind this weekend. Jealousy.

I am not talking about your jealousy. I am referring to the jealousy of other people when you tell them, especially when you FIRST tell them, you are going into business for yourself and will be working at home. It is absolutlely, without a doubt, one of the biggest hindrances we face. We, who are blessed by the entreprenuerial spirit, get very excited about our dreams coming true and can really see the big picture in our minds at all times. Those dreams and goals mean the world to us and sadly, one inconsiderate A-hole can sometimes put a dent in that spirit. (Sorry for the french)

I’ve been through it myself and have seen it happen to other people who are just beside themselves with excitement when starting out as an independent entreprenuer (I just ADORE that word) only to have a loved one or even a complete stranger throw out the most heinous of comments your way. Some beauties include “You’ll never make it.”, “You’re crazy.” or even a “Yeah, sure - whatever you say.” What about “How you gonna make money without a real job?“. There may also be a few laughs or guffaws or snorts thrown in for good measure. Through no fault of your own, your immediate knee-jerk reaction may be to second-guess yourself or criticize yourself for even thinking you could do this on your own. Some may get scared enough to drop their plans all-together. Some, like me, will get even more motivated with an “I’ll show them” attitude, which quite frankly only motivates me more. But it still takes a toll.

I am proud of what I have done and know I have come a long way. But there are still people very close to my life that still do not acknowledge I have my own business. I will refrain from an example so as not to make an ass out of the guilty but it’s not just one person either. Essentially the supporters I have – the real honest-to-God cheerleaders are fewer in number than the naysayers. Sad, right? Well, I’ve grown used to it for the most part. It still makes me just want success even more for myself – in spite of them not because of them. At this point, I don’t even want the moment of “I told you so” anymore like I did when I started. Instead, because I have redirected that energy towards my ladies in blogging who face the same crap as I do.

I think it is extremely important for newbies to realize and acknowledge that jealousy exists and can make people act like @@%$%. Even if you never thought your mom, husband, fiance, cousin, best friend, or auntie could ever do that or act like that towards you – I am hear to tell you – OH YES THEY CAN. It basically comes down to jealousy – jealousy that you are not afraid to step out of your comfort zone and do what you want. Jealousy that you are the only boss you have to answer to. Jealous that you have almost total control of your time and maybe even your life – moreso than they do. It’s a sad fact of life and one that might affect you more than you are willing to admit. But their reactions should NEVER make you give up on yourself. You need to find the strength to go forward with what you want without concern for the negativity surrounding you. As long as you beleive you can do it, you can do it! Trust in yourself. When those you love consistenly question you about your intentions or comment on your decisions, you are not obligated to defend yourself in words – because actions certainly speak louder. You know what Nike says…I concur.

Having said all that – there will be those who are just genuinely interested in what is going on. Cherish that encouragement. Listen to what supporters have to say and then form your own opinion. Do not become the ultimate selfish biyatch either. No one wants to encourage the person with a nasty chip on her shoulder who can not be told anything. There is a big difference between being confident and being a jerk. Sure it’s okay to stand up for what you beleive and what you want in life but acting like you own the world isn’t healthy either. Learn to recognize when jealousy is hovering around and be the bigger person. Accept that there will always be some people that are unhappy with their own lives and could never begin to comprehend the kind of life you now lead.

Happy Monday to you all. Stay Strong and Don’t Forget to VOTE tomorrow. I am proud to say I will finally be going to the polls! Peace Out ~

Most Commented Posts

• Are You Waiting For Your Ship To Come In?
• Overwhelming Workload – Yes! You Can Do It
• 11 Tips for a Successful Home-based Business
• What I’ve Learned About Working From Home
• Writing for Money – Without Being Published
• I’ll Take Jealousy for $100, Alex
• Balance House Work With Work At Home
• OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE: EMPOWERING MOM BLOG GEARING UP TO CELEBRATE MOM IN THE MONTH OF MAY
• For Best Results: Use When Ready
• Work-At-Home Writers Shouldn’t Wear Sweatpants