Entitled

I grew up in a town with a lot of entitled kids that came from wealthy families.

Lately, I’ve been thinking about entitlement.

Entitlement is something we all display at times.

We work hard and thus, feel entitled to a raise.

We get dolled up and thus, feel entitled to a compliment.

We learn about an industry and thus, feel entitled to start our own business.

What I’ve come to learn from Seth Godin is that in order to get what you want, you have to work hard at it – and even then, it might not happen.

What I’ve come to learn from Seth is that you’re not entitled to anything other than taking advantage of the opportunities presented to you. 

“You’re not entitled to the business you want. All you’re entitled to is understanding what’s working in the market and doing that,” says Seth.

Just because you put in the time and effort doesn’t mean you’ll get the result.

“Just cause you like doing something, doesn’t mean you’re entitled to get paid fairly for doing it,” says Seth.

Regardless of your efforts, you aren’t entitled to any set outcome.

When we let go of the entitlement, we operate from a place of hope and excitement rather than expectation; that’s a powerful place to come from.

Not only does it lead us to work hard, it results in increased feelings of pride and gratitude for both our efforts and accomplishments.

When we achieve the result we hoped for (rather than expected,) it’s easier to be happy because it is seen as an accomplishment rather than a given. 

Operating from a sense of entitlement is only going to set you up for disappointment, regardless of the outcome.

When you don’t get what you expected, you’re left feeling bitter. And even when you do get it, you just see it as what was “supposed to happen.” 

Plus, entitlement is rarely a good shade on anyone so why even wear it?

1 Comment

  • Kate Wirshing says:

    Wonderful comments Julia! I’ve often wondered how you and Sarah emerged relatively unscathed from your formative environment. Must be those conscientious parents who gave you lasting and very human values. You go girl!!!!

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