I’m all in.

Once I took control of my career and stop being passive, things changed for me. I’ve had some incredible opportunities this year. Makes me wonder sometimes, am I really that good?

The “Am I” vs. “I Am” Philosophy

When you get a little success, it can be difficult for some people to remain humble. However being humble is far more attractive than being boastful.

Think of Taylor Swift, every time she wins an award she’s all like…”Oh wow, little ole me?” And that’s cute right? She can’t go all Kanye and act like they owe her. Remember Kevin Costner’s eulogy at Whitney Houston’s funeral? He said she wrestled with being good enough for the part in “The Bodyguard.” As successful and talented as she was, she still had her doubts.

Most great athletes thank their teammates after a winning game. They don’t take any credit or self-promote.  They never seem to accept that they are good enough for the recognition they receive, although they work hard and put in the time. They understand that’s how you stay grounded. They push themselves a little harder.

“I am that good” is more of a self-promoting motto that’s associated with irrational brash thinkers, which can lead to entitlement. And entitlement is code for complacency and laziness.

By asking, “Am I that good?” it pushes the thinker to be their best, it drives them to greatness. They consider themselves lucky and are always wanting to prove that they are worthy of all the attention and opportunities they receive.

Luck always plays a part in life’s little journey.  Malcolm Gladwell suggests that people can practice and study to become Outliers but not all of them are successful. Many truly successful people are lucky; lucky to have friends, family or mentors that assisted them along the way. No one’s self-made. Remember that.

In fact some folks that declare they are good are really lucky.

Things haven’t quite gone my way all the time but, I’m still afforded opportunities to shine. That’s all I can ask for; an opportunity. And when they come, I make the most of them. But sometimes I can’t help but to wonder… “Wow, Am I that good?”