#im sad at the wasted potential of this couple on screen

[fujunfuren]

Lee Je Hoon x Esom - Taxi Driver Behind the scene cuts

[shinidamachu]

I had no idea that the creators hated zutara. I never got into the atla fambase but i did watch and i kinda shipped zuko and katara together. I guess cause of the last fight scene together and that one part when they were trapped together. I hope shipping wars in atla aren't as bad as what i see in the inuyasha fandom.

I have no issue with aang and katara being canon though. But i would think that the creator would have been aware that not everyone is going to agree with what you do you just have to accept it. Like i don't 100% agree with some of the things RT did in the inuyasha manga but im fine with it.

Crazy, right?

I think the Inuyasha fandom is currently actually pretty chill on the ship wars department (the sᴇssʀɪɴ thing is something else entirely), but the analysis, metas and discussion on the ATLA fandom seem to be still growing strong to this day.

The first time I watched ATLA I was too young and not really interested in the romantic part, so it flew right over my head (to the point I was legit surprised when I learned people actually shipped Zutara). Like, I knew Aang had a crush on Katara and I loved Aang so of course I'd expect them to end up together, but that's just it, isn't it?

The whole ship is based on Aang's feelings while ignoring Katara's or limiting them to "she'll come around." Which she inexplicably does, off screen and after the war is over in the best "hero-gets-the-girl" style. This realization, that only came to me after rewatching, now as an adult, really put me off the ship. Not to mention how much it hurts their individual character developments.

Especially Aang's, who was facing a "Want vs Need" dillema and had the solution handed over to him without actually sacrificing anything to achieve it. It's sad to watch a character I love so much become that possessive, entitled and having the narrative reward him for it, cheating him from the growth he so desperately deserved.

That's my main issue with the ship (that and the way it treats Katara). On paper, it had everything to be friends-to-lovers supremacy, just the most wholesome, healthy, fluffy couple ever... but the execution was very poorly done. So I don't hate it, but I can't get behind it either.

On the other hand, the more I rewatched the show, the more I could see exacly where Zutara shippers were coming from until I became straight up obsessed. The amount of chemistry, understanding and wasted potential between them was just insane.

[thepictureofsdr]

Every time I read an analysis of some sort of TLH I feel the potential it had/has and how much it was wasted. The family dynamics, seeing beloved characters be parents and realize how dangerous their old shenanigans were, the friendships, the everything. But no. Most of the couples feel rushed, we barely see how good friends the merry thieves are, we also almost never see them interacting with their families.

oh absolutely. this entire series feels like a missed opportunity. cassie attempted way too much for something she only allotted 3 books for, this many main characters and relationships can’t thrive in the limited time she’s given them. im someone who could read a horrific plot happily if i cared for the characters but even im noticing the plot lacking, and its not like there’s good emotional content to pick up the slack. so many of the problems of this series are emotional. in other books the problems end when the plot is resolved, the trauma is assumed to be dealt with off page but it’s satisfying because the trauma was never a main point. there was trauma galore in TID, and it was partially dealt with, but because it was never made to be as big a point in comparison to the relationships and plot, the off page healing was enough, since it was something that can be dealt with while living life.

but this series has trauma be a main point. james and cordelia can’t magically end up together. they’ve had too many conflicts and i can’t see james being secure in a relationship for a few years. alcoholism sometimes takes a lifetime to get through and we haven’t even see matthew START a healing process. thomas needs time to figure out who he is, and alastair,,, he literally hasn’t been happy or burdenless since he was 10 he actually does have a lifetime of trauma. if it was plot related trauma i don’t think anyone would care if these couples ended up together after a resolution and did the typical off screen YA healing. but this is so deeply ingrained stuff that if the series ends without even a BEGINNING of resolution? its going to be so unsatisfying.

james and cordelia are literal childhood friends but even they feel rushed because of how much time is given to drama and not development. and don’t get me wrong i love a bit of angst but its not the same when you have to balance like 4 other couples and a plot there’s not enough time. we barely see the families interact, the parents aren’t involved at ALL which is normal for typical YA parents but not normal for the people we fell in love with a series ago, the friendships are strained AT BEST and everything is loose ends. THERES SO MUCH POTENTIAL ITS SO SAD

[kinda-iconic]

Somewhere in the Crowd there’s You

This fanfic was written for Day 17 of the Choices December Challenge....

Day 17 prompt: Dancing 💃

Pairing: Adrian x MC

This was requested by someone, though I can’t locate the post to tag them 😩 though I’d like to thank you so much for requesting this beanie! I loved writing this piece and I hope that you enjoy reading it! ♥️

Song that Inspired this piece: For this challenge, I was originally planning on using Christmas songs to inspire all of my fanfics... however, this idea stemmed from an evening of classic party tunes and it just stuck in my head for a while! 🎉 The song that inspired this piece was ‘Super Trouper�� by the lovable ABBA

Summary: After an evening at the Office, Adrian and Amy accompany Lily on a night out, though it soon becomes apparent that Adrian is in for more than he thought.

Author’s Note: I love writing choices fanfic and, more importantly, adore writing for this pairing! Everyone has their own OTP and I think I can safely say that this is mine! I just wanted to thank you all for supporting me on my journey and reading my writing - you honestly have no idea how much your kind words and encouragement have meant to me over the past few months and I’m forever grateful ♥️

Tagging: @queerchoicesblog @im-nk-writes @teamtomsato @gavryllo @melodyofgraves @give-me-ernest-sinclaire @blackcatkita @divergentofhogwarts @flyawayboo @nobounderiesplease @christopher-powell @littleblossom357 @kamybelen-blog @itlivesbeneath (just because it’s Adrian 😂)

It had been a couple of months since the Showdown with Vega, and Amy found herself spending most of her days in the sanctitude of Adrian’s penthouse; though she enjoyed spending time with him out of work, a feeling of unease often clouded her mind, for she wasn’t entirely sure as to why he was so persistent.

At first she thought it was a spontaneous gesture; that he simply wanted to spend more time with her. However, as the days turned into weeks, it became apparent that his persistence wasn’t drawn from care or spouts of adoration.

It was drawn from fear.

It had been a pretty uneventful evening for Amy; though there seemed to be continuous stream of paperwork to complete, she couldn’t help but feel like her time was being wasted. Adrian had spent the entirety of his early evening in meetings with potential clients, and his absence was clearly felt as the room soon began to feel empty. She was on her own, and she couldn’t shake the feeling that something wasn’t quite right; the lights had been dimmed, and she found herself perched in near darkness, the only light resonating from the computer screen and the vibrant glow of the street lights below.

It wasn’t long before her phone illuminated the room, alerting her to a message from Adrian.

Her eyes windened with curiosity as she hastily texted a response.

Her mind wandered to her best friend; Lily never usually cared for going on spontaneous nights out, let alone without any company.... and why did she message Adrian?

She typed a quick reply before throwing her phone into her bag and retrieving her jacket. Within seconds, Adrian appeared from the elevator, reaching up to adjust his tie as he spoke, one arm looping around her waist.

‘Are you ready?’

The club pulsated with vibrancy and light, the bright beams bouncing off of the walls as they interchanged in time with the music; the dancefloor was littered with people, dancing through the night as they drank to excess, small beads of sweat glistening on their foreheads. Adrian’s eyes darted to every corner, one arm wrapped protectively around her waist. His hand tightens on her torso as they edge further into the room, pulling her closer to his side with every step, his brow knitting with concern.

‘Do you actually enjoy visiting places like this?’

‘Of course, though it’s normally the company that makes it more exciting - hence why I’m always out with Lily.’

Before he has a chance to respond, a strong force pushes into Amy as a young man collided with her, knocking her off of her feet and into Adrian. He clasps her shoulders to steady her, leaning back to support her as she regains her balance, shooting the man an icy glare as he hurries away.

‘Are you alright?’

‘I’m fine, Adrian - it was an accident I’m okay.’

She felt the muscles in his arms tighten, drawing her closer to his chest, as if for reassurance that keeping her by his side would ensure her safety.

‘Hey,’ she turns to face him, running her hand through his hair, ‘is everything okay?’

‘Yes of course; I’m just a bit on edge, that’s all.’

‘Adrian...’ her hand falls to cup his cheek, ‘it was an accident; he just had a bit too much to drink that’s all... people fall into one another all the time it’s only natural.’

He leans into her touch, his hand tangling in her hair, ‘I know that but..’ he pauses, collecting his thoughts, ‘you can never be too careful.’

He gazes warily around the room, before his eyes fall on a familiar figure edging towards them, her purple braids jolting in the air as she bounds in their direction, her cheeks brazen with sweat and glitter.

‘Amy!’ She pulls her friend into a hug, her hands entangling in her golden brown curls. ‘You actually came...’

‘Of course we did, we knew how much it meant to you!’ She rests her hand on Lily’s forearm as her lips curve into a smile, ‘Besides, dancing with the bestie sounds like heaven right now...’

‘Awh I couldn’t agree more! Though I also thought that it’d be nice for you both to get out of the Office for a night,’ Lily’s eyes dart between the pair, before refocusing on Adrian, lowering her voice to a whisper. ‘We could dance, take shots, buy a few rounds.... take more shots.... you know the typical Friday night out!’

‘You’re totally broke, aren’t you?’

‘...no?’

Amy meets her with a stern glare.

‘Okay okay! I may have spent a fair amount on a night out or two but it’s not like it’s a crime - I’m here for a good time not a long time...’

‘....You’re immortal.’

A brief silence encompasses the group, before the realisation strikes her. ‘Oh yeah...scrap that last comment.’

Adrian clears his throat, his hand resting on the small of Amy’s back as they step aside, giving a group of intoxicated partygoers access to the booths.

‘Thank you for inviting us, Lily.’

‘No need to thank me, Adrian,’ she smooths her hands across the creases on her skirt, ‘we’ve all been so busy recently it just felt like a good idea to unwind ya know?’ Her ears perk up to the sound of a familiar beat as it begins to emanate from the speakers.

She turns her attention to Amy, the pitch of her voice raised in excitement. ‘Ooooh this song is my JAM....wanna dance, twinkle toes?’

‘Maybe later,’ she smiles fondly at her, her eyes darting to the open floor, ‘now go and show these newbies how it’s done!’

‘No need to tell me twice!’

She takes her leave, maneuvering through the crowds before reaching the over-populated dance floor, her arms swaying in rhythm with the music. Adrian leans into Amy, his chin resting against her temple as he speaks.

‘Twinkle toes?’

‘It’s a silly nickname she came up with,’ she draws closer, meeting his gaze as her eyes reflect the ever-changing lights, ‘I was quite light-footed back in the day....’

‘Oh? What changed?’

‘She became a vampire and developed super hearing.’

‘Ah Yes,’ he presses a delicate kiss to her temple as she relaxes in his embrace, both arms wrapped tightly around her waist, ‘Is she adjusting well?’

‘Well she’s always been a night owl but it’s just...’

‘She misses going out in the sun...’

Amy nods.

‘Does it get easier? Not venturing out in the daylight?’

‘Oh yes; it takes a couple of years at least but it soon becomes more of a routine,’ their eyes focus on Lily, whose movements are becoming more rapid as the music changes pace, ‘Though that doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy it for her.’

‘I know but it’s not the same.’

A sad smile graces her lips, before the comfortable silence is broken as the music shifts into a slow song; several revellers leave the dancefloor as couples begin to take their place.

She nudges him playfully, entwining her fingers with his as she leads him forward.

‘As it’s a slow song and all, I was wondering if perhaps monsieur would like to dance?’

He returns her grin as he pulls her closer, pressing his forehead against hers.

‘You already know the answer to that.’

The pair follow Lily into the crowd, their hands entwined as she leads him into the centre, his hand resting protectively on her waist as they take their positions. They sway to the flow of the music, her crimson dress bouncing with every step as they move around the dance floor.

She leans in to his embrace, resting her head on his chest as the atmosphere blurs around her, ‘thank you for doing this tonight; I know that you’re not exactly big on clubbing.‘

‘I wasn’t about to pass up the opportunity to spend more time with you outside of work,’ he presses a gentle kiss to the top of her head, ‘Though I can’t say that it hasn’t been nice to see Lily and Jax again.’

‘Jax is here?’

Her gaze shifts to his face, a fond smile enveloping his lips.

‘You didn’t notice the katana?’

‘No I....’ she pauses, glancing around the room, ‘where is he?’

He points to the shadows, where a lone figure stands, eyes aglow as he surveys the room, nursing a glass of bourbon in his hand.

‘Oh... is he okay?’

‘I would say so,’ he trails his hand along her spine, cupping the back of her neck. ‘He’s a good man; an excellent fighter and skilled negotiator if you ask me, though the Baron isn’t exactly making it easy for him to find his feet.’

‘Is there anything I can do to help?’

He gazes down at her, her doe-like eyes filling him with warmth as they focus on the features of his face. He captures her lips in a soft kiss, his lips curling into a smile against hers.

‘You being there is enough for the both of us,’ he hesitates, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear, ‘You’re a good friend, Amy; you’ve done so much for all of us that it feels like you’ve been around for a long time.’

‘Am I a good friend to you too?’

He cups her cheek with his hand, running his thumb across her jawline until it reaches her bottom lip. He speaks softly, lowering his voice to a hushed whisper as he leans in to her ear.

‘I’d say you’re more than that to me.’

She wraps her arms around his neck, her fingers lacing through his hair.

‘Well I’m not going anywhere just yet.’

He rests his forehead against hers, their bodies moving in sync with one another as the track switches into a recognisable tune, this being met with an eruption of cheers from the crowd.

‘Super Trouper beams are gonna blind me,

But I won't feel blue;

Like I always do,

'Cause somewhere in the crowd there's you..’

Amy’s eyes widen in recognition, an excitable smile enveloping her lips as she lets out a joyful gasp, her gaze falling on Adrian’s face as the blue lights glisten on his cheeks.

‘Oh my God I love this song!’

‘AMMMMMYYYYY!?!?’

A loud voice beckons to them from across the room, drawing their attention to the bar; Lily stands on the counter, her feet shoulder width apart as she peers over the crowd, her hand grasping a bottle of wine as she bops in time with the music. She outstretches her arm towards them, gesturing for her to come over with a curled finger.

Adrian’s eyes dart between the pair as he edges her forward with a confident smile. ‘Go...’

‘Are you sure?’

‘Yes,’ he draws her closer to him, placing a lingering kiss to her temple, ‘this is your night as well as my own.’

Adrian’s attention remains on Amy as she manoeuvres through the crowd towards Lily, pulling herself up onto the bar to stand beside her friend. Within seconds, the pair are in mid song, their melodic voices carrying across the room as they recite the words, their pitch changing to match that of the track. He watches her with intent, a loving smile spreading across his face as she moves in time to the rhythm before they break into a synchronised dance, their faces aglow with a mixture of excitement and alcohol.

Their gazes meet once more as she flashes him a mischievous smile. He focuses on the details of her face; her rosy cheeks, the dimples that form as she smiles; the way that her hair cascades down her back like a golden waterfall. All of these things made her unique; all of these things made her human and, as he continued to watch her, a delicate flame radiated through his body; a feeling that he thought had since been long extinguished.

Love.

[topicprinter]

I don't want the title to sound like I'm attempting to write some epic series. I'm more surprised than anything that the first post was so well received. I think subconsciously I hoped it would sink and that I would have scratched my itch.As it does seem to be helping a few of though and I did say I'd keep writing if it helped, I feel the need for at least a couple more posts and I'll hopefully take the time to answer some of the comments individually on the previous one.​To continue then, here is a 'Don't- Do- Don't' sandwich to keep the positive and negative even.I'm certainly not bashing on entrepreneurship, far from it. I really do think everyone that has the desire in them should start something- I'm just really concerned for others that feel they have to start something in the way and with the aim that other people are telling them to.​I've jotted down 4 more Don'ts and a handful of Do's here. As I mentioned in my previous post on here- I personally think that by scaling back your ambitions and intentions, focussing on the tiniest actions and letting go of too much need for a return on your efforts you are far more likely to either do something a little worthwhile that you can benefit from or even surpass these humble goals with something closer to your unrealistic goal than you would otherwise.​Apologies in advance again if I hit anyone too close to the bone and please bear in mind that I have probably been there.​(Side note: On browsing through yesterdays comments I think there are some people that could do with a 30 or 60 day detox from self help. Don't tell yourself you're quitting them forever- just swinging the control in the relationship with your books and authors back in your favour)​Two More Don't Do's for the Day.So yesterday I touched on the Don't Do's of 'Aiming for the Stars', 'Looking for too much advice', 'Desperation towards starting a business/ Lack of patience' and 'Overthinking'.I genuinely think if you avoid them you'll do better than not. To build on them and go a little deeper here's what I have maybe done and didn't work or have closely observed in the people in my circle (ie happy, decently off, mostly non millionaires although there are a few).​Don't Take Yourself Too Seriously (or be too hippy confident)I don't know what it is with us when we start out on this journey but I think it's the innocent care free child inside us hiding from this new scary creature we're trying to mould ourself into.Depending on who your'e copying, you may naturally start to try and emulate them. Most stereotypical famous entrepreneurs (not all btw) are either quite aggressive/ arrogant or quite 'know it all-ey'. From what I recall anyway.They're either strutting and yelling and power shaking the soul out of people or they're trying to come across as some type of hippy wizard who just 'knows' everything and can see round corners.Again, to compare that to the people I personally know- they are far more ordinary than any of the personalities- they're far less intense barring a bit of good old enthusiasm.I can't quite think of how to describe the ones I know but one thing that covers it is that they are all great to socialise with and good at parties, I can imagine the ones I haven't been to a party with are also.I don't mean they are the life and soul by any means- some of them are found with me in the kitchen or corner- what I mean is that they'll talk about varying and interesting things, will bang out a few dad jokes or take the p!ss out of others and themselves.They like a laugh an most of them did before they made it.Every single one of them has a pretty involving hobby/ interest outside fo their work or business (I've now written a list/ mind map of these people to help me write about them!) and I wouldn't describe a single one of them as intense or preachy.Actually come to think of it- I believe deep down that a lot of them come across as being aware how lucky and possibly average they are.This was a big realisation I came to myself prior to 'doing well' and I now feel better in myself with this opinion.- Lighten up, chill out, put more effort into your hobbies and outside interests (or get one), laugh; and enjoy life a bit more.​Dont try to find Opportunity Everywhere- Don't Think of everything as a potential business.Bear with me on this one.​A few years ago, after harassing my health service for several years prior to get me in front of a shrink to diagnose me with the Adult ADHD I 'knew' I had, I was finally aloud to go in for some tests- the lovely Indian lady doctor told me the reason I kept getting into a funk of lack of focus, indecision and spiralling 'anxiety' (which has similar symptoms- more on this later) was partly due to the fact that I had Seasonal Affective Disorder (and partly due to the fact that I was sadly desperate for success- she knew!)I was told by her to get a blue light and try mindfulness. Of course I took that as 'become a meditation teacher who's not into the woo woo and open a centre' and 'start a specialised website that provides advice to sufferers of SAD and sells blue lights etc'.I then went home, looked up all the keyword search volumes and started to analyse the competition- I felt sick when I realised the lo and behold someone had beaten me to it... by at least 20 years. The keywords were really competitive and it just wasn't worth it.I begrudgingly bought a light from the top result and when it came I think I kinda hoped it was crap.These last few winters I've actually used the blue light in the mornings and feel far better this time of year than I ever remember.I know that many of us that are naturally drawn to entrepreneurship are problem solvers, opportunity grabbers and make things betterers but we only have so much creative energy and decision making juice in us each day.By looking at every damn object or service we come across as something that we 'could get into', it drains our radar and puts everything into the same swamp of ideas.I think it's better to be more of a disregarder- again Im sure that the people I know know this.I've personally found that the businesses that have happened for me were a bit like with me and my wife. The first few encounters were random, meaningless events... we spent a little time together and took things slowly with no agenda. Then without even realising it we were in love and then married with children.- The opportunity will come if you let it and you'll just know when you know.​Time for some Do Do's(Stop it Chandler!)Finally, some things that can be done!Like I said, I think having a business is great, has made me a better person and has made me a good bit better off. I genuinely attribute a large part of my 'average' success and subsequent happiness to things I stopped doing rather than new habits that I formed but here are a couple of things I and those I observe do/did and may be worth trying yourself.​When you stop fantasising, researching and frantically flicking through motivational books & videos, you're left with some space that needs filling.I already mentioned hobbies and interests, but I'll cover that after what I think should head up the list.​Spend time with other peopleI haven't called it family or friends etc as I don't want to marginalise anyone who doesn't have them. I don't want to brag but I am lucky in this sense- if you're not so, I genuinely think you can do something about that.I also appreciate that people may be shy, be introverted and/or have social anxiety.I still think that its really important that you spend more time with the people you like spending time with or go out and find some. I guess it doesn't matter if they are online even- just spend time chatting and getting to know others more intimately... and remember, not too serious yeah.Have a laugh, get drunk, go fu shi up, go bowling, play frisbee, walk/ hike, play pool, fish, shoot, dance, knit... whatever..... with other people. More importantly make sure its people your'e not trying to sell to, buy from or otherwise advance yourself in business/ finance.Also, when things get going in your business life, don't bore these people with ita) It usually is boring andb) they like you cos you're who you are- not what you are.​Worthwhile wastes of time- AKA Hobbies and interestsYep, I know I'm beating this drum to death- trust me, its important.If you're the active sort, go and do something physical, just drop the goals and the aims etc, especially if you're into bodybuilding or running etc. Swing on some bars or look up calisthenics if you want to use your muscles. Take a look at woodwork, building heavy things or something like that.Try not to replace your addiction to being an entrepreneur/ wantrepreneur with another addiction though.You're just killing a bit of time and giving yourself something to take your mind off of things. Using your body and mind for something other than 'trying to succeed'.Remember- no outcomes. You're doing what the soft headed teacher told you at school about just taking part and not winning.Although I like video games, I don't like to feeling I get after sitting down in front of screen for too long so I can't play them. I do love movies and gripping documentaries so probably watch about an hour a day and film or two at the weekends after the kids are in bed (usually with beer/ wine and snacks).A few years ago I would be sat the on my laptop or iPad 'looking things up'. I couldn't even bring myself to enjoy a few hours in the evening to watch a film. Jeez- what a waste.I've taken to building things and renovating my house- it's coming along quite well, I'm really improving my DIY skills and am amassing a fine array of tools. I've built a shed out the back, moved the kitchen from one end of the house to the other- according to the mortgage broker I've added nearly 50k to the value of my house.... what's important though is that I've really really enjoyed it. I have plans for many other things and am learning CAD (which I should know being in engineering anyway but this time its for fun) and am watching several CNC routers on eBay to further the fun.I also love growing and cooking food- not trying to be a masterchef or thinking about opening a restaurant- Just messing about with flavours and/or following recipes to the letter and switching off.This post isn't about me though- I just hope it's a decent example.The others I know are into motorbikes, following sport, also building things, also food and cooking, art/ painting/ drawing, animals etc etc- Find out what what floats your boat and go do some. Tie it in with other people for added enjoyment but also give yourself a bit of 'me time'.��Right- some businessey stuff.​Give yourself timeOkay, a kind of a reiteration here but as before.. bear with me.Take a step back and if needs be take some real time off of thinking about starting if you haven't done so yet. If you are in business and are feeling disillusioned, give yourself a bit of a break- systemise and consolidate a few things and try and get yourself on a plateau.​Of all the self-help and motivational things I hate most and feel are the most damaging- it's the 'It's only too late if you don't start now', 'Quit your job', 'Drop out of college' crap.If you want to start a business and get started, you would be far far better doing it small and part time alongside a job.I know you're tired on an evening and just can't get your brain to do something- I've been there.You're not thinking small enough yet, you're too caught up in whether you will be wasting time on something without an eventual payoff for it or whether it's worth it and will lead to the fast track of being a millionaire or more.Seriously, give yourself some space- take the next few weeks/ months to just enjoy doing nothing and then when you're ready- Start Really Small.If you're not sure what business to start- keep doing nothing. Stop resisting the real world- it will be there along with all it's wonderful opportunities when you come back to it. You'll hopefully be more realistic and willing to be a shade more mediocre when you come back.If you hate your job or someone in it, the next ones for you.​Figure out how to Tolerate Yourself and OthersAnd by others, I also mean other things.I actually think it's rare that we actually hate our jobs.I think it's more likely that we hate the fact that we are there.Whether it's because we feel too good for the job and it's inherent shortcomings or we can't really believe that we are on the same pay scale and worthiness as some of the dumb@sses we share our workplace with- we are really hating our belonging to that situation more than anything else.In order to move, and again this is the direct result of conversations with some of the successful people I know, we have to transcend the situation.Yes, we work alongside some horrible/ stupid/ pedantic/ lowly/ very special (not good special) people and hence in the eye of our colleagues and society we are on the same level as them.I feel for you and if we met I would quite possibly agree that you are better than them. Feeling bad about it isn't going to help you though so you must transcend.I'm not quite sure how the universe or its evolutionary system works (sorry Abrahamic religion people) but I think it's kind of a promotion system.I'd bet that the fish that made it onto the shore and grew legs were the descendants of the better of the fishes- I just don't think evolution created reptiles from the offspring of really crap fish- like 'Hey youre terrible at swimming and eating other smaller fish- you should try being a lizard".I think then, that it's kinda the same in society and as I said, in particular with my self made friends. Quite a few of them actually got into their present business by the way of an opportunity presented to them by being good at their previous jobs.It's similar to me as well. I ended with my 'day business' as I turned myself round and decided to start working hard at what I was doing and putting the troggs to the back of my mind.It got noticed and I was given several pay rises, I then ended up on the radar of my friends dad who owned his own business and asked me to run a project for him. 4 years later I'm flying and have invested in several other ventures/ people since.- Transcend and overcome the drudgery of what you are doing now while you are still there.Move on when its time and you're ready.​SystemisationI've decided to make this a separate post as it really covers too much for an already far too long post- I'll let you know when this is up fully but for now....Turn everything you do into a system.When you do eventually get going, think of every single step as something you might have to do again. Make a game out of making things into a system. Using either a basic paper notepad/ filing system or one of the free or built in word processors or spreadsheets, make a list of the things you are doing.It will speed up any rework, it will make you better at remembering things and it may force you into trimming wasted activities out of your day.You might feel silly writing down "Spend 4 hours browsing r/Entrepreneur" followed by "Watch 10 random guru videos back to back- but only halfway because they haven't given me the missing secret yet and the search must continue hastily"I promise I'll add more to this in the week but for now- Think 'Systemise It'.​The last couple of Dont'sI hope the majority of these items being dont's doesn't put you off- I do think you can do it if you get realistic and start being easier on yourself. Avoid things is easier than doing things and yields similar results. You don't have to run the 8 miles if you don't eat the extra donut (You can have one though!).A couple more things to avoid.Apps and online servicesTalking about what you're doing/ going to do.Apps and ServicesAny time spent looking at organisational, project management, CRM, email management, keyword/ adword, accounting, team comms etc etc etc apps, that you don't currently have a pressing need for is a complete waste of time.Especially if you are just starting out- by the time you need one the market will have changed and you will have to look though them all again.Trust me...been there and done that.Again, by all means have a browse. If you start evaluating them and heaven forbid buy any, you are fantasising and feeding your delusional side.Pen and paper works fine if not better than most apps. Particularly for a one man band or small team.​TalkingThe last but not be ignored thing I have noticed in others and has turned my life around since I stopped, is the ability to work on my stuff in silence and to keep one's counsel in general.If you need to tell people what you are doing, I think you are giving yourself some kind of reward internally. If you're getting the reward from telling your friends, family or colleagues- you won't feel the need to get the reward from selling or creating something when you finally get started.Bigging Up your business may have the same effect. You may not need to take it to the next level or wrap it up into a more passive income with the work being done by others if your ego is already getting it's hit.Secondly, it increases the anxiety towards the fact that you must be doing something right now. If you've told people you're going to move on from this situation and become a millionaire, your mind will be frantically looking towards things to do to make this happen.Until your opportunity has come along or you are ready for one, this could manifest itself in more addiction to the non worthy activities we've already been through.- Keep quiet until you get started.- When you do get started, continue being quiet about it.- If you're already in business, quieten up a bit.​​That wraps this one up and again I hope some of you find something useful.​​​​​​​