If you don’t like someone’s story, write your own.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote "If you don't like someone's story, write your own" speaks to the power and autonomy each individual has over their narrative and perspective. At its core, this message encourages personal agency and creativity in the face of dissatisfaction or disagreement with the stories and viewpoints presented by others. It serves as a reminder that rather than passively accepting or critiquing narratives that don't resonate with us, we have the option and the power to create our own.
Firstly, the quote underscores the importance of ownership in storytelling. In life, we are constantly surrounded by stories—those told by the media, society, or individuals around us. These stories shape our understanding of the world, our values, and our beliefs. However, not all stories align with our experiences or reflect our truths. When confronted with a narrative that feels untrue, limiting, or misrepresentative, the quote encourages us not to merely criticize it, but to take action by creating a new narrative that better reflects our reality and values. This act of writing our own story is an assertion of our voice and perspective.
Moreover, the quote emphasizes the significance of constructive action over passive criticism. It’s easy to find fault in others' stories and point out what's wrong or missing. However, this quote suggests that a more productive and empowering response is to channel that energy into creating something new. Writing our own story becomes an act of contribution rather than just criticism. It transforms us from passive consumers of narratives to active creators, allowing us to shape the discourse and influence others positively.
In addition, writing our own story is a powerful metaphor for taking control of our lives. It signifies making choices that reflect our aspirations, values, and truths, rather than being confined by the expectations and narratives imposed by others. This idea can be extended to various aspects of life—career choices, personal relationships, lifestyle decisions, and even our self-concept. By writing our own story, we are essentially taking responsibility for our path and defining success on our terms.
Furthermore, this quote highlights the uniqueness of individual perspectives. Every person's story is different, shaped by their unique experiences, cultures, and insights. By encouraging us to write our own stories, the quote acknowledges the value of diverse narratives and the richness they bring to our collective understanding. It reminds us that our individual stories have worth and can contribute to a broader, more inclusive tapestry of human experience.
In conclusion, "If you don't like someone's story, write your own" is a powerful call to action that emphasizes personal agency, constructive action, and the creation of diverse narratives. It encourages us to take ownership of our stories and contribute our unique perspectives to the world. Rather than being passive recipients of the stories around us, we are invited to become active participants in the storytelling process, shaping our realities and the world in which we live.
Who said the quote?
The quote "If you don't like someone's story, write your own." is often attributed to Chinua Achebe (Bio / Quotes). Chinua Achebe was a Nigerian author and poet who is best known for his novel "Things Fall Apart.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
One vivid historical example of the message, “If you don't like someone's story, write your own,” is the life of Harriet Tubman and her role in the Underground Railroad. Tubman, born into slavery in the early 19th century, lived a life constrained by a narrative written by others—one of enslavement and limited rights. Yet, Tubman did not accept the story that was handed to her. Instead, she took control of her own destiny and redefined her story through courageous action.
Tubman escaped slavery in 1849, but rather than simply enjoying her newfound freedom, she chose to return to the South multiple times to rescue other enslaved individuals. Her daring journeys were not only acts of personal bravery but also attempts to rewrite the narrative of her people. By leading numerous missions to guide others to freedom, she created a new story of resistance and hope.
Her story didn’t end with her escape. Tubman’s life became a powerful testament to self-determination and change. She also worked as a spy for the Union Army during the Civil War and later advocated for women's suffrage. Each chapter of her life illustrates a refusal to accept the limitations imposed on her and a commitment to shaping her own narrative and influencing the broader societal story.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
The quote “If you don't like someone's story, write your own” can be profoundly relevant in many aspects of personal and professional life. Consider the scenario of someone in the corporate world who feels stuck in a role that doesn't align with their aspirations or values. Perhaps they are in a job that seems to confine them to a rigid path, with little room for creativity or advancement. They might be disheartened by the lack of recognition or the unfulfilling nature of their work environment.
Instead of resigning themselves to this unsatisfactory narrative, they have the power to craft their own story. They could start by identifying what truly excites them and what kind of work aligns with their passions and strengths. This might involve acquiring new skills, seeking out opportunities for innovation within their current job, or even transitioning to a new field that better aligns with their interests.
For instance, suppose someone has always been passionate about environmental sustainability but works in a field unrelated to this cause. Instead of accepting a limited role that doesn’t fulfill their passion, they could start volunteering for environmental organizations, participating in sustainability projects, or pursuing further education in environmental science. They might even choose to start their own initiative or business that aligns with their values.
In doing so, they are not only redefining their professional path but also actively creating a new story for themselves. By embracing this proactive approach, they turn their dissatisfaction into a driving force for change, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and self-directed career.
This approach is not limited to professional scenarios. In personal life, individuals who feel constrained by societal expectations or personal circumstances can also apply this mindset. For example, someone who feels pressured to follow a traditional path in their personal life might choose to explore alternative lifestyles or relationships that better reflect their values and desires.
Overall, writing your own story means taking ownership of your narrative, making intentional choices that reflect your true self, and actively pursuing the life you want to live. It’s about rejecting passivity and embracing the power of agency to shape your own destiny.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
