Life can be a double-edged sword. It offers highs and lows.

We encounter the best of days, and some that seem to be the worst of days. We end up in undesirable situations, and are often surrounded by certain people that we would rather not deal with. We put in efforts that are worth it in some cases, and fall short in others. It is easy to get discouraged when you keep getting knocked down.

But, do we just give up trying?

We are taught our whole lives to abide by the definition of fairness. In school, we were first taught that “honesty was the best policy” and that we must wait our turn in line, and respect our neighbors. Over the years, this has evolved into variations of the message that being successful is to put in hard work.

But is putting in hard work really what will put us ahead? I mean personally, I believe this is the best method, but I also see others getting ahead of themselves and their career by lying and manipulation.

I am not kid anymore and I see more and more examples of flaws in the system daily. I realize there is a lot of unfair things in this world on all scales:

I’ve seen people study hard just to be disappointed when it comes time to take a test, because nothing is straight forward.

I’ve seen people try out for a team and not make it because they weren’t tall enough, or run for a board position and lose because they weren’t “popular” enough.

I’ve see people constantly be scaled next to others in situations that doesn’t call for a comparison.

I’ve seen the less qualified candidate get the job simply because of a connection.

I’ve seen people put 110% into a relationship, and not get the same in return.

I’ve seen people bad mouth the people they supposedly care about just to better themselves.

I’ve seen people put on an act in front of those that can further their careers, and rude to those that can’t.

I’ve seen people get slammed with both academics and family issues all at once.

I’ve seen people complete years of schooling to earn a degree just to not get a job.

I’ve seen people working on group projects singlehandedly.

I’ve seen people try and put their own touch on things, when all that is wanted is the same generic way.

I’ve seen A TON of frustration because of all this, that in my opinion is unnecessary.

It is in these cross roads in life, where our morals are put to the test. No matter how we individually come to terms with our efforts and the results of them, I’ve learned a few things...

I’ve learned that abiding by my morals to achieve my goals is way more impressive then manipulating others to achieve my goals.

I’ve learned that I’d rather earn something that I deserve, then simply to be given it.

I’ve learned that it is not how many times you succeed, but how many times you fail that makes you stronger.

I’ve learned to NEVER give up and to stand up for what I believe in.

I’ve learned that what goes around comes around, and that the mistakes people make will get back to them.

I’ve learned not to wish anyone bad or to stoop to the level of those who are not doing the right thing.

I’ve learned that if I try my best that’s all I can do.

I’ve learned that it is most important to always stay true to yourself.

I'm proud of how I choose to achieve my goals despite the unfairness all around. Are you?