Influences come from many sources. We learn from our family and friends, are shaped by society and it's norms and we surround ourselves with people who build us up. Unfortunately, life isn't always that easy and we can have the tendency to ruin what goes well for us. Doubt, expectations, comparisons and failures are a few of the things that we ourselves can use to sabotage our happiness and success. For every time we listen to a piece of encouragement or praise we open ourselves up to hear our insecurities.

We can be pulled in different directions, not knowing which way to go. Every voice wants to be heard and to pull you towards it. But which one do we listen to?

This isn't always a bad thing. As soon as we stop doubting ourselves is the moment we become complacent and stop improving. Every time we hear that voice of dissatisfaction and doubt it may hold some truth. What do we want? Are we doing enough? Are we going in the right direction? Do we listen to the voices outside or the ones inside?

These aren't easy questions to answer. What sounds like a good path might lead to ruin and the untested and dangerous road may lead to something great. There are so few firm answers.

What if we listened to every voice?

Having more options and perspective may make things easier. If we choose to ignore a voice it stops being an unknown.

What if we listen to the wrong voice?

So be it. A decision cannot be changed and mourning over the loss of something that was only a possibility will only hold you back. Focus instead on the voices that are in front of us now and not the ones that have no effect on the present. Keep listening and choosing. If we don't, we might miss out on something important.