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Face it, the only reason you have been cool with certain things is because someone you know, possibly admire and trust, is cool with doing it. And if not for them, you probably would have not followed through.
I have a lot of examples, but I'll be selective. The semi-retired part time job I have been doing for a number of years for example; had it not been for the fact that some ex-career guys I knew were already doing it, I certainly would have passed it by. It's definitely not a great job, but it's good pocket money, and for what they pay, I certainly do not have to think too hard!
As metnioned, the examples we may generate are far too numerous, some of the good variety and some, well......lets just say we should have looked the other way. Just because someone you trust and/or admire is fine with doing dumb things (you can imagine what's on this list) doesn't mean you should take the same foolish path. In fact, this is when character shows, and you say "no". This is when you provide the leadership, by rejecting the deed. It can be tough for sure, especially when it's your buds, and a lot depends on being one with them. But try to look beyond. If you get in trouble it's your fault.
I digress.
When you really think about it, it's usually a good thing that we take a leap of some sort because others have cleared the path and made the trip a little safer. Otherwise we may avoid a lot of things, and never get to grow from the experiences. And one thing I learned in life is that the more I tried various activities, the more likely I gained from the opportunity. Even if at first it didn't feel just right. But to me, that's just the door opener......to all the interesting rooms within. It could lead to new friendships, expanded horizons, maybe even a networking connection that turns into a real solid engagement down the road.
So if it takes someone else you know to start the process, hey, go for it. Just be a bit wary of the obvious downside. But heck, you're smart enough to know.
I have a lot of examples, but I'll be selective. The semi-retired part time job I have been doing for a number of years for example; had it not been for the fact that some ex-career guys I knew were already doing it, I certainly would have passed it by. It's definitely not a great job, but it's good pocket money, and for what they pay, I certainly do not have to think too hard!
As metnioned, the examples we may generate are far too numerous, some of the good variety and some, well......lets just say we should have looked the other way. Just because someone you trust and/or admire is fine with doing dumb things (you can imagine what's on this list) doesn't mean you should take the same foolish path. In fact, this is when character shows, and you say "no". This is when you provide the leadership, by rejecting the deed. It can be tough for sure, especially when it's your buds, and a lot depends on being one with them. But try to look beyond. If you get in trouble it's your fault.
I digress.
When you really think about it, it's usually a good thing that we take a leap of some sort because others have cleared the path and made the trip a little safer. Otherwise we may avoid a lot of things, and never get to grow from the experiences. And one thing I learned in life is that the more I tried various activities, the more likely I gained from the opportunity. Even if at first it didn't feel just right. But to me, that's just the door opener......to all the interesting rooms within. It could lead to new friendships, expanded horizons, maybe even a networking connection that turns into a real solid engagement down the road.
So if it takes someone else you know to start the process, hey, go for it. Just be a bit wary of the obvious downside. But heck, you're smart enough to know.
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