I’ve been trying to be “ballsier” lately (the past couple of years, anyway). I had a long history in the creative fields and I achieved a lot…but working for other people, or shortselling myself, or ignoring great opportunities for fear of failure. I’ve been through the wringer. I worked jobs that weren’t right for me and avoided opportunities that would have made me happy. I’ve had people spread rumours about me and tarnish my name. I still deal with those lies. It still hurts. But I’m working hard every day to make my dreams happen in every facet of my life. It means facing rejection. It means ignoring the losers who try to throw stones in my engine. It means sending a followup email. And it’s working. I’ve launched a pilot program for applied arts workshops, I’m ever growing as a circus performer, and I’m a professional writer with the perfect job for me! This article is harsh but true. As I’ve written before, following your dreams means nothing. Executing your skills in pursuit of your dreams is everything!