Transcend Rules

Listen to this week’s message:

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As music legend Prince said, “A strong spirit transcends rules.” (1)

How strong is your spirit? Prince Rogers Nelson defied convention. From his audacious androgynous style to his prolific musical genius, he was the epitome of originality. At 19 years old, he produced, arranged, composed and played all 27 instruments on the For You album. In 1993, after mega-hits such as Purple Rain and Sign o’ the Times, Warner Bros. reportedly tried to slow his creative output to match their schedule. In protest, he changed his name to a symbol–since the company owned the name Prince–and began performing with the word “SLAVE” on his cheek. Saying “freedom is sexy” (2), he was an innovator, activist and philanthropist. When he died at age 57, he had sold over 100 million records worldwide, won seven Grammy Awards, a Golden Globe Award, and an Academy Award. Like Prince, transcend rules. Live a life of full-on authentic expression. Whether you are an artist, scientist, philosopher or entrepreneur, believe in your vision and make a positive statement through your actions. Don’t let outside opinions affect you. Listen to your inner wisdom and write your own score. As Prince said, “Cool means being able to hang with yourself.” (3) There is strength in self-acceptance and individuality. Conformity crushes creativity by maintaining a status quo consciousness. If you want to rise to higher levels, be bold and tenacious in sharing your uniqueness.