Standing Up for Something May Cost You Everything

Colin Kaepernick has found himself in the news recently due to his new ad with Nike. Other athletes such as Lebron James and Tim Tebow have also been willing through the years to stand up for what they believe in. I do not always believe in what they are standing up for, but I must applaud them for their willingness to use their platform and status in sports to make a stance. Not everyone is willing to put their reputations on the line. The easiest and safest path is to play, make lots of money and stay in the shadows. These men among others are willing to go the extra mile. They realize they are being called to do more than just use their athletic ability. They have been put in a position where they can make change happen. Why are these athletes the minority when it comes to athletes? Far too many athletes are too focused on themselves, but if we are being honest with ourselves how many of us fall into this category too? These athletes have been given a voice and a platform and they are taking advantage of it.
If you think about it all of us have the same choice, even if it is on a smaller scale. Are you willing to stand up for what you believe even though it may mean sacrificing something important to you? Is there something currently in your life you believe in so much you are willing to make personal sacrifices? We cannot condemn these athletes for standing up for what they believe if we are not willing to do the same thing. We are each shaped by the world and environment we grow up in although our stances and views can change over the years. What does sacrifice look like for you? It is different for each individual. Are you willing to give up everything or do you have limits on how far you are willing to go to see change made? Humility and pride are in constant battle which sometimes prevents change from taking place because we are so focused on how we are going to be affected we are not willing to take those first few steps toward change. Everyone has a chance to make a difference, but not everyone is willing to make a stand for what they believe in.
Some quick tips to consider when standing up for what you believe. What is it you are passionate about? Deep down inside what gets you excited or what gets you angry? How important is the change to you? It will cost you something so you must ask yourself what you are willing to give up. Lastly, what steps must be taken in order for this change to take place? What will it take from you? How will you choose to make your stand? The ball is in your court are you willing to play all out and live all in?
If fear is getting in the way of you standing up for what you believe in let me know how I can help. Reach out to me at jonathan@iamallincoach.com