# Navigating Success in an Unjust World: A New Perspective
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Understanding the Nature of Society
The reality of the world is that it often feels unjust and oppressive, especially in our youth when we may feel compelled to rebel. However, rebelling against an abstract concept like "the world" is futile; there isn't a singular controlling force or a conspiracy at play. Instead, society is a complex web of interactions among individuals and groups—much like numerous ant hills scattered across a vast landscape.
“Society emerges from countless relationships,” says Ayodeji Awosika in Real Help. Human institutions have developed organically over time, shaped by natural selection rather than design. As various societal conditions arose, they prompted human behavior in specific ways, leading to the formation of communities, nations, and industries, which in turn shaped individuals.
“This world we inhabit is the result of many variables coming together,” Awosika notes. Understanding the intricate and evolutionary aspects of our society is essential for personal growth and cultivating a realistic mindset, ultimately leading to greater happiness in life.
The Dangers of a Rebel Mentality
I once idolized the Romantic Rebel—someone who dismisses greed, ambition, and the pursuit of power, believing these to be the root causes of all human suffering. I attempted to embody this persona, which led to a mixture of pride and shame, ultimately isolating me from reality.
A poignant moment in South Park struck me: amidst a war, a folk singer appeared, strumming an anti-war song, only to be shot moments later. It mirrored my own misguided actions—out of sync with the world's realities.
Life's lessons hit hard when my long-term relationship ended, friends moved on, and my dreams of becoming a musician faded. I realized that the world wouldn’t yield opportunities without effort on my part, compelling me to reassess my beliefs.
I had been fixated on negative abstractions—believing the world was inherently unfair and that ambition was synonymous with oppression. While these ideas may hold some truth in specific contexts, they fail to capture the dynamic and fragmented nature of reality.
Fighting against society can drive one to madness, and you'll inevitably lose battles against a nonexistent enemy. This futile struggle not only diminishes your self-esteem but also marks you as a target for others in the social hierarchy.
The essence of success lies not in predicting your future based on your current self-perception, but rather in the cumulative effect of your daily actions, which shape who you become.
Learning to Thrive
To succeed, abandon abstract reasoning about society and your identity. Media thrives on simplistic labels, but they often distort reality. Instead, focus on time management and establish routines that yield long-term benefits.
Prioritize process over outcomes—concentrate on writing for 45 minutes daily instead of fixating on the publication of your novel. Avoid chasing fame, money, or recognition; these are often byproducts of being well-positioned within the social landscape.
Push your boundaries in manageable ways, and remain true to your values. Document what matters to you and recognize the importance of your gradual progress, even if it seems slow compared to others.
Stay active—intelligence is not about preconceiving your identity or the world's nature, but rather about making astute decisions as you navigate life. Similarly, kindness is not merely abstract concern for humanity; it manifests in the way you treat those around you.
You are continuously engaged in interactions that either fortify or undermine you. If your worldview predisposes you to accept failure, it’s crucial to reevaluate it, as well-intentioned actions may yield undesirable outcomes.
A Vision for a Better Future
The true potential for a brighter world hinges on individuals grasping reality as it is and achieving self-actualization. This will foster happiness, confidence, and the ability to make wise, compassionate choices, ultimately cultivating a society of better humans. As more individuals embody these traits, they will contribute to the creation of fairer institutions, leading to a more equitable world.
The first video, "Never Play Fair in an Unfair World," delves into strategies for navigating life’s challenges while acknowledging the inherent injustices we face.
The second video, "How To Win When Life Is Unfair," offers insights on overcoming obstacles and leveraging personal strengths to thrive despite adversity.