Hustling Means…
“I’m living every day like a hustle. Another drug to juggle, another day another struggle.”
-Notorious B.I.G
The Notorious B.I.G classically defined this term “hustle” as something one must do to survive in a harsh and unforgiving world. However, this definition, perhaps unintentionally, has transformed throughout our generations. It has seemingly evolved from a term that has only had negative associations, to one now used in a positive light and embodies the essence of motivation and integrity. It is no longer a grind to make do in every-day life, but a trend that has swept our millennial to strive for the goal that is perhaps just beyond your reach, yet perhaps close enough to be truly genuine.
Hard Work
We make decisions every day, both easy and difficult choices. Eventually, those decisions become subconscious, they become our identity. I choose to wake up early each day and begin with choices that will lead to a brighter future. I choose to make decisions throughout my day that can only lead to a positive trajectory. I choose to stay up past midnight to accomplish a goal that has been 10 years coming. Yes, if you have talent, your path may be smoother, your success may be more renowned, and perhaps you will be remembered. But you may also lack the self-discipline and satisfaction that one can only experience with hard work.
Honing Your Craft
“Talent is cheaper than table salt. What separates the talented individual from the successful one is a lot of hard work.” -Stephen King
They say hard work without talent beats talent without hard work. I have seen this come to life first hand. If your desire is strong enough, and you possess an inextinguishable passion for your craft, you will come far in your work. There is a fine line between the everyday grind, and having a passion for that same toil that will propel you to the summit of your skill.
Pushing Boundaries
“The sky is not my limit… I am.” – T.F. Hodge
Set your goals so that seem just beyond your reach, and then start your hustle. DO not make excuses for yourself. Define yourself through this new perspective. This will be your new identity. People often use fear as a defense or doubt themselves in the most restrictive of ways. Do not let yourself get in your way, or let yourself restrict your mind.
Exceeding Expectations
High achievement always takes place in the framework of high expectation. – C.K.
Do not exceed others expectations, exceed your own. The satisfaction you will feel once you pass each milestone will feel that much more triumphant. There are no stereotypes, labels or limitations. There is just you and today, and it is waiting for you.
Doing You
To hustle today means to do you; to be who you are no matter what. We live in a world where it’s so easy to judge, criticize, bully and degrade others, but this is what separates hustlers from ordinary people. Most people will let others dictate the kind of life they should have. Those who hustle work towards a desired goal, they will not be deterred, regardless of what other people.
So, hustle. Don’t be like the majority, and don’t fall into the trap of stereotypes, labels, and limitations. Rise and grind each morning, and tear it up. Whether it’s on the streets, or at the next rap battle, or skatepark, rep yourself as a hustler. Rock your hustle hoody, and own your talent, goals, and aspirations and dominate the world in the meantime.
…And that’s what it means to be a hustler,
and that’s what DURO threads is all about.