The Hard Truth About Success:
It’s Earned, Not Owed

In a world where dreams are a dime a dozen, and action is in short supply, there lies a profound truth:

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“Walk like a god. Work like a dog.

You must believe you’re capable of anything, but entitled to nothing.

Those who live this paradox run the world.”

– Zach Pogrob​

These words encapsulate a powerful philosophy that combines self-belief with relentless effort—a paradox that, when mastered, can transform your life.

In today’s society, many young people struggle with finding their path to success.

The allure of quick fixes, instant gratification, and entitlement can easily lead to a sense of frustration and helplessness.

You might feel stuck in a cycle of dreaming big but never taking the necessary steps to make those dreams a reality.

The Myth of Entitlement

As Robert Heinlein established in his book, The Moon is a Harsh Mistress and The Cat Who Walks Through Walls, TANSTAAFL​

“There ain’t no such thing as a free lunch.”

One of the biggest problems facing many today is the myth of entitlement.

The belief that success, happiness, or fulfillment is something you deserve simply because you exist is a dangerous trap.

That is why we see so many Kens and Karens posting on social media.

This mindset leads to disappointment and inaction, as people wait for opportunities to fall into their laps rather than creating their own.

The Fear of Failure

Fear of failure paralyzes many aspiring individuals.

It’s easy to dream when there’s no risk involved, but taking action requires courage.

The fear of making mistakes or being judged can prevent you from taking the first step toward achieving your goals.

The quickest and easiest way to overcome the fear of failure is starting small.

Then building upon those small successes to attempt slightly bigger challenges.

Today this every day for a year, and you won’t recognize yourself.

Lack of Direction and Purpose

Without a clear sense of direction and purpose, it’s challenging to channel your energy effectively.

Wandering aimlessly through life, you might find yourself working hard but getting nowhere, like a ship without a rudder.

Most people waste time and energy focusing on what they don’t want:

• hate this job
• don’t want to be single
• wish I could do whatever I want

The problem with this kind of thinking is that it points to everywhere but where you’re at.

And it doesn’t point to a direction of where you want to go.

• If you hate your job, what do you want to do instead that will pay the bills?
• What are the qualities and characteristics of the partner that you would love living your life with?
• What would you be doing if you could do whatever you want? What lifestyle? Where? Who are you surrounded with?

The Cost of Inaction

Every day you spend in inaction is a day lost.

Time is the most precious resource, and once it’s gone, it’s gone forever.

Inaction not only prevents you from reaching your potential but also erodes your self-confidence over time.

You only have so much time here on this Earth.

You can either waste, spend or invest that time.

• Spend it to live your present self
• Invest it into become your future self
• Waste it to regress into your past self

It’s up to you what to do with your time and energy.

But don’t blame anyone else for your poor decisions.

The Consequences of Entitlement

An entitlement mentality can lead to dissatisfaction and resentment.

When you believe the world owes you something, you miss out on the satisfaction that comes from earning success through your efforts.

This mindset can strain relationships and limit personal growth.

“Life is hard.

Life is harder when you’re stupid.”

– John Wayne

When I first heard this quote, it became my motto for work and life.

“Don’t be stupid!”

My friends and coworkers got tired of hearing from me but I was seeing it everywhere and I didn’t want my life to be harder than it had to be.

The Cycle of Fear

Fear of failure creates a cycle that’s hard to break.

It leads to procrastination, missed opportunities, and ultimately, regret.

The longer you let fear dictate your actions, the harder it becomes to overcome.

In Carlos Castenada‘s book, The Teachings of Don Juan: A Yaqui Way of Knowledge, he talks about the four enemies of man;

• Fear
• Clarity
• Power
• Old Age

And fear, being the first, stops most people in their tracks.

Not even getting to a place where they have to face the 3 other enemies.

​Learn to make a friend of fear.​

Realize that every time you are feeling fear you are growing, learning and becoming more.

Walk Like a God:
Cultivate Unshakeable Belief

To walk like a god means to cultivate an unshakeable belief in yourself and your abilities.

This isn’t about arrogance or thinking you’re better than others; it’s about recognizing your potential and having the confidence to pursue your goals relentlessly.

​Learn to love and respect yourself so much that you have no time for anybody trying to take you down.

Don’t let somebody else’s opinion become your laws.

This is your life.

Own it!

Work Like a Dog:
Embrace Relentless Effort

Working like a dog means embracing relentless effort and hard work.

It’s about putting in the hours, showing up consistently, and doing what needs to be done, even when you don’t feel like it.

Success is not a result of luck but of consistent, dedicated effort.

Each and every day, do a little bit toward your goals, dreams and priorities.

Learn to say, “No” to distractions, rabbit holes, and FOMO

Allow the 1% Compounding Effect to work for you, not against you.

​Create habits of success.

Balance Belief with Humility

Believing you’re capable of anything while feeling entitled to nothing is a powerful paradox.

It means having the confidence to aim high while staying humble enough to work hard and earn your achievements.

This balance is the key to true success.

You know what the difference between confidence and arrogance is?

Confidence is stating what you can do and have done.
Arrogance is trying to convince people what you hope you can do and haven’t done.

I learned this from one of my senior instructors of hapkido.

It was my first introduction into the Bruce Lee quote;

“I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times.”

My instructor was giving me the path to confidence and dispelling any arrogance.

From Dreamer to Doer

When you adopt this paradoxical mindset, you transition from being a dreamer to a doer.

Dreams without action remain fantasies, but when you combine belief with effort, you turn those dreams into tangible results.

Building Resilience

Walking like a god and working like a dog builds resilience.

You learn to overcome setbacks, adapt to challenges, and keep moving forward despite obstacles.

This resilience is what sets successful individuals apart from those who give up at the first sign of difficulty.

Living with Purpose

Living by this philosophy gives you a sense of purpose.

You wake up each day with a clear direction, knowing that your actions are aligned with your goals.

This sense of purpose fuels your motivation and keeps you focused on the journey ahead.

If you’re ready to embrace this powerful paradox and transform your life, now is the time to take action.

Here are some steps to get started:

1. Cultivate Self-Belief

   • Affirmations: Use daily affirmations to reinforce your belief in yourself and your abilities. Remind yourself that you are capable of achieving anything you set your mind to.
   • Visualization: Visualize your success in vivid detail. Imagine yourself achieving your goals and experiencing the satisfaction that comes with it.

2. Embrace Hard Work

   • Set Clear Goals: Define your goals and break them down into actionable steps. Create a plan and stick to it, adjusting as necessary.
   • Consistency is Key: Show up every day and put in the work, even when it’s hard. Consistency is the secret ingredient to long-term success.

3. Stay Humble

   • Practice Gratitude: Cultivate an attitude of gratitude for the opportunities and resources you have. Recognize that success is earned, not given.
   • Learn from Others: Stay open to learning from others, regardless of their position or status. Everyone has something valuable to teach.

Are you ready to embrace the paradox and take control of your destiny?

If you’re serious about transforming your life, take the first step today.

Remember, you are capable of anything, but entitled to nothing.

Let this mindset guide you as you walk like a god and work like a dog.

The world is waiting for those who dare to live this paradox. Will you be one of them?

Conclusion: The Paradox in Practice

Embracing the paradox of walking like a god and working like a dog is about aligning your mindset with your actions.

It’s about believing in your potential while committing to the hard work necessary to realize it.

Those who master this philosophy understand that success is not handed out freely; it’s earned through dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to grow.

Real-Life Examples of the Paradox

1. Elon Musk: A Visionary with Relentless Drive

Elon Musk is a prime example of someone who embodies this paradox.

With unyielding belief in his ability to revolutionize industries, he has tirelessly worked to bring his visions to life.

Whether it’s SpaceX, Tesla, or Neuralink, Musk’s journey is marked by sleepless nights, countless failures, and relentless pursuit of innovation.

​He walks with the confidence of a visionary and works with the intensity of someone who knows that nothing is guaranteed.

2. Oprah Winfrey: From Humble Beginnings to Global Influence

Oprah Winfrey’s story is one of overcoming adversity through sheer determination and belief in her potential.

Growing up in poverty, she didn’t allow her circumstances to define her future.

Instead, she worked tirelessly to become one of the most influential media moguls in the world.

Her journey exemplifies the balance between self-belief and hard work, demonstrating that anyone can rise to greatness with the right mindset and effort.

3. J.K. Rowling: Persistence in the Face of Rejection

Before J.K. Rowling became a household name with the Harry Potter series, she faced numerous rejections from publishers.​

Yet, she believed in her story and continued to persevere.

Her success story is a testament to the power of walking like a god, with unwavering belief in her creative vision, and working like a dog, consistently honing her craft until she achieved literary success.

Practical Tips for Living the Paradox

1. Set Clear Intentions

Having a clear intention gives you direction and purpose.

Define what success means to you and what you’re willing to do to achieve it.

When you know what you want, you can focus your efforts and avoid distractions.

2. Develop a Growth Mindset

A growth mindset is essential for living the paradox.

Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow.

Understand that failure is not a reflection of your worth but a stepping stone to success.

Cultivate resilience by viewing setbacks as temporary and surmountable.

3. Build a Support System

Surround yourself with people who believe in you and your potential.

A supportive network can provide encouragement, guidance, and accountability.

Share your goals with others who understand the importance of balancing confidence with hard work.

4. Celebrate Small Wins

Acknowledge and celebrate your progress along the way.

Recognizing small achievements boosts your motivation and reinforces your belief in your ability to succeed.

It’s a reminder that your efforts are paying off and that you’re moving closer to your goals.

5. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness helps you stay grounded and focused on the present moment.

It allows you to manage stress, maintain clarity, and make conscious decisions.

Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation or journaling into your routine to cultivate self-awareness and resilience.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Journey

Walking like a god and working like a dog is not a destination but a journey.

It’s a lifelong commitment to self-improvement, resilience, and growth.

As you navigate this journey, remember that true success is not measured by external achievements alone but by the person you become in the process.

Your Challenge

I challenge you to take the first step today.

Identify one area in your life where you can apply the paradox of belief and effort.

Set a goal, create an action plan, and commit to it with unwavering dedication.

Walk with confidence, work with persistence, and watch as you transform your life.

The World Awaits

The world is shaped by those who dare to dream and act.

By embracing this paradox, you join the ranks of those who run the world, leaving a legacy of inspiration, innovation, and impact.

The power to change your life and the world around you

The Taoist Art of Appearing Foolish

In the season one finale of The Newsroom, an HBO series known for its sharp commentary on modern media, the episode titled “The Greater Fool” explores a financial term that initially sounds like a warning.

The “greater fool” is the one who buys high and sells low, foolishly believing that they can succeed where so many others have failed.

This individual is often mocked as naive or arrogant, but beneath the surface lies something deeper—an almost Taoist embrace of appearing foolish.

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What if I told you that the world doesn’t need more “smart” people—critics, cynics, and cowards who spend their lives pointing out every potential pitfall, only to avoid any forward movement?

What if, instead, we need more Taoist fools?

People who are willing to appear foolish, ignorant, and, most importantly, courageous enough to take action where others fear to tread.

In a world filled with weaklings, but only a few warriors, the difference between success and failure often comes down to the willingness to embrace the role of the fool.

Success doesn’t come to those who merely see the obstacles—it comes to those who charge headfirst into them.

Too Smart for Your Own Good

Today, we’re facing a societal epidemic of overthinking.

Everywhere you look, you’ll find someone ready to tear down an idea, criticize a bold move, or offer ten reasons why something “won’t work.”

These people are not warriors—they are weaklings.

It’s the easier route, after all.

It’s easy to see all the potential pitfalls and do nothing.

It’s easy to talk a big game, remain on the sidelines, and justify inaction by claiming intellectual superiority.

But here’s the thing: that mentality will never get you anywhere in life.

Think about the biggest accomplishments in history.

They weren’t achieved by the people who sat around nitpicking at every detail.

No, they were achieved by people who took action, who dared to look foolish, and who charged forward regardless of the overwhelming odds.

And that’s the problem: we’ve created a society where it’s safer to be a critic than a creator.

It’s safer to stay in the comfortable role of pointing out flaws than to risk failing while attempting something great.

Cynicism and skepticism have become intellectual shields for cowardice.

But the Taoists, in their timeless wisdom, understood the importance of appearing foolish.

They knew that true power, true success, comes from the willingness to step into the unknown with an open mind and a courageous heart.

Smart People Are Stupid and Foolish People Are Fearless

So let me ask you this: when was the last time you made a bold move?

When was the last time you put yourself out there, knowing full well that people might call you foolish?

The world is full of opportunities that most people never seize.

Why?

Because they’re too busy calculating every possible risk, too concerned with what others will think, or too comfortable where they are.

The “smart” people—the ones who seem to have it all figured out—rarely accomplish anything significant because they never take the leap.

The Taoist concept of appearing foolish is a powerful antidote to this paralysis.

To the outside world, the Taoist fool may seem ignorant or naive, but in reality, they possess a deep understanding of life’s greatest secret: success comes from action.

Not from thinking, not from worrying, and certainly not from trying to appear smart.

From the Tao Te Ching​

“Give up learning, and put an end to your troubles.
Is there a difference between yes and no?
Is there a difference between good and evil?
Must I fear what others fear? What nonsense!
Other people are contented, enjoying the sacrificial feast of the ox.
In spring some go to the park, and climb the terrace,
But I alone am drifting, not knowing where I am.
Like a newborn babe before it learns to smile,
I am alone, without a place to go.
Others have more than they need, but I alone have nothing.
I am a fool. Oh, yes! I am confused.
Others are clear and bright,
But I alone am dim and weak.
Others are sharp and clever,
But I alone am dull and stupid.
Oh, I drift like the waves of the sea,
Without direction, like the restless wind.
Everyone else is busy,
But I alone am aimless and depressed.
I am different.
I am nourished by the great mother.”

​- Translated by Gia-fu Feng and Jane English, 1989, Chapter 20

The fool knows that failure is a possibility, but they also know that inaction guarantees failure.

They understand that to make progress, you must be willing to look foolish.

You must be willing to fail publicly.

And most importantly, you must be willing to move forward regardless of the pitfalls.

But most people don’t have that kind of courage.

They let fear control them.

• Fear of failure.
• Fear of judgment.
• Fear of looking like they don’t know what they’re doing.

And so, they stay stuck in their comfort zones, rationalizing their inaction with clever excuses.

Think about it: what’s holding you back right now?

Is it a lack of knowledge, or is it fear?

Is it because you’re genuinely not ready, or because you’re afraid of appearing foolish?

If you’re honest with yourself, you’ll realize that it’s probably the latter.

You’re afraid of taking a risk because you don’t want to look like a fool.

But the truth is, that’s exactly why you’re stuck.

We live in a world that glorifies safety, predictability, and intelligence, but real success—warrior-level success—requires embracing the role of the fool.

It requires charging forward when everyone else is holding back.

It requires acting with courage, even when you don’t have all the answers.

Failing Forward Like a Fool

The solution to this problem is both simple and profound: you need to become a fool.

Not in the sense of recklessness or stupidity, but in the Taoist sense of embracing the unknown, taking action without overthinking, and being willing to look foolish in the eyes of others.

Here’s why: fools make progress.

While everyone else is busy analyzing and criticizing, the fool is moving forward, learning, adapting, and growing.

The fool doesn’t let the fear of looking stupid stop them from taking the first step.

And because of that, they often end up achieving things that the so-called “smart” people never will.

Think of the greatest innovators, entrepreneurs, and warriors throughout history.

Were they always the smartest people in the room?

No.

But they were often the most courageous.

They were the ones willing to make bold moves, to fail publicly, and to keep going despite the odds.

That’s what separates warriors from weaklings.

Warriors are willing to face overwhelming forces because they know that’s where growth happens.

That is why incidents like the Battle of Thermopylae resonate through history.

Weaklings, on the other hand, are too afraid to engage even in one-on-one challenges.

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They see every obstacle as a reason to quit, while warriors see it as an opportunity to grow stronger.

If you want to be successful in life, you need to cultivate the mindset of the Taoist fool.

You need to be willing to charge forward, even when you don’t have all the answers.

You need to embrace the possibility of failure, knowing that it’s the only way to make real progress.

Here’s how you can start embracing your inner fool:

1. Take action before you’re ready. Stop waiting for the perfect moment or the perfect plan. It’s not coming. The fool knows that the only way to figure things out is by doing. So take the first step, even if you don’t feel fully prepared.
2. Ignore the critics. Whether they come from the outside or inside your own mind, critics are always going to be there. But the fool doesn’t let them dictate their actions. The fool knows that criticism is a sign of movement, and movement is the only way forward.
3. Learn from your mistakes. The fool doesn’t expect perfection. They expect to make mistakes, and they learn from them. Every failure is a step closer to success, and the fool embraces that process. They don’t let fear of failure stop them; they use it as fuel to keep going.
4. Embrace uncertainty. The Taoist fool understands that life is unpredictable and that trying to control everything is a fool’s errand. Instead, they move with the flow of life, adapting and adjusting as they go. They don’t need to have all the answers before they act because they trust that they’ll figure it out along the way.
5. Get comfortable with discomfort. The fool knows that growth happens outside of the comfort zone. They willingly step into uncomfortable situations because they know that’s where real learning occurs. They’re not afraid to be the beginner, the one who doesn’t have it all figured out. In fact, they embrace it.

“Today Is a Good Day to Die!”

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When Worf says, “Today is a good day to die,” while he does mean he’s willing to die a physical death because he’s a warrior; more importantly, he means he’s willing to kill the coward in him and in all of us.

In a world full of critics, cynics, and cowards, the Taoist fool stands out.

They are the ones who dare to take action when everyone else is stuck in analysis paralysis.

They are the ones who are willing to look foolish in pursuit of something great.

If you want to be successful, you need to embrace the role of the fool.

You need to be willing to take risks, to fail publicly, and to move forward even when you don’t have all the answers.

You need to ignore the critics and trust that through action, you will figure things out.

The world doesn’t need more “smart” people who point out every possible flaw or risk.

It needs more Taoist fools—people who are courageous enough to take action in the face of uncertainty.

That’s the difference between warriors and weaklings.

Warriors move forward despite the odds.

Weaklings hold back because they’re too afraid of failure.

So if you want to be a warrior—if you want to achieve real success—you need to be willing to look like a fool.

The Taoists knew that true wisdom comes from action, not from trying to appear smart.

It’s time for you to embrace that wisdom, step into the role of the fool, and start making progress toward your goals.

Because in the end, the only real foolishness is not trying at all.