It’s disheartening, isn’t it? That someone, somewhere, could look at your effort, aspirations, or results—and hope they falter. I experienced this recently and felt compelled to write it down, to process it. At first, it felt personal. But as I reflected, I realized it wasn’t.
People often project their fears, insecurities, and unmet expectations onto others. Progress can provoke envy. Persistence can cast a spotlight on someone else’s doubts. The more one reflects, the clearer it becomes: it’s usually less about the target of their negativity and more about the person harboring it. Still, it stings all the same.
My Grandad Dennis would say “If they knew better, they’d do better.” The truth is, someone’s wish for another’s failure doesn’t actually change anything—unless the person allows it to.
The actions of others are outside one’s control. What remains within control is how one chooses to respond. Faced with negativity, there’s always a choice: carry the weight of others’ wishes, or set it down and move forward, unburdened.
The best response isn’t anger or retaliation. It’s not about proving anyone wrong. It’s about staying true to the path, showing up for the work, and doing it with integrity.
Their wishes are just noise. The focus must remain the signal.
Sea's The Day 