“I was a rebel nerd. Then I became a metalhead, chains hanging from my trousers. Later, I got into electronic music. After that, I went through a spiritual phase. Now, I’m just… me. I read some of your writing,” he said, “and I think you’re a rebel.”

That was a potential future manager’s opinion of me. I left the interview feeling crushed. Why would he say that? Sure, I question things. I have my ups and downs. But rebellion? That didn’t feel right.

Some friends told me there’s nothing wrong with being a rebel. So I searched for that rebel within me — not as something negative, but as a kind of self-therapy. And through that lens, I saw something else: authenticity.

Synonyms for authentic? Bona fide, genuine, real, true, undoubted.

Since childhood, I’ve been strong-willed and honest about my choices. The person who believes in their dreams gives them a chance to come true. And let’s be honest — it’s hard. Really hard. But I keep showing up. Every day.

That manager misjudged me — and missed the chance to know someone lighthearted, smart, and full of humour. But reflecting on that moment, I realised something deeper: you have to let go of frustration and keep going. That’s self-growth.

Bitterness won’t take you far. Judgments are shallow. When someone criticises or doubts you, it often reflects their own fear — not of who you are now, but of who you might become. They want you to stay on the same level because it’s safer that way. You can take small steps, sure. But what if I’d rather hike a mountain? Harder? Yes. But also mine.

Some people, even friends, will try to pull you back every time you do something different, bold, or simply you.

If you’ve been judged for your dreams — keep going anyway. Your path isn’t theirs. I used to let others’ doubts get in my way. But now, well into my 40s, I finally ask: Who the f*ck are they to decide what I do with my life?

So here’s my brutal advice:
Trust your gut. Follow your joy. Be your damn self.