Do whatever you want to persevere, work for your own things, and

"Do whatever you want to persevere, work for your own things, and do not depend on anyone to be your provider. That way, in the future, you will be all right regardless of the circumstances." These powerful words, spoken by Dascha Polanco, speak to the core of self-reliance and the strength that comes from building one’s own path. Polanco’s message is a reminder that true independence and freedom are not granted by others, but forged through our own efforts, determination, and resilience. By working tirelessly toward our own goals and refusing to rely on others for sustenance or success, we empower ourselves to face whatever challenges life may bring, knowing that we have the skills and strength to navigate the future, no matter what it holds.

The ancients held self-reliance in high esteem, seeing it as a mark of character and honor. The Stoics, for instance, emphasized the importance of personal virtue and the ability to endure life’s challenges without being swayed by external forces. Seneca, one of the greatest Stoic philosophers, wrote, “We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.” The Stoics understood that true power lies not in external wealth or the support of others, but in the strength of one’s own character and ability to withstand adversity. Just as Seneca and other Stoics practiced self-discipline and personal responsibility, Polanco’s words urge us to take control of our lives, to work hard, and to cultivate a resilience that will carry us through difficult times.

Consider the example of Hannibal, the Carthaginian general who, in 218 BC, led his army across the Alps to invade Italy, against all odds. Though he was vastly outnumbered and his army faced harsh conditions, Hannibal relied on the strength of his men and their determination to endure the trials of the journey. He did not depend on external support, but instead drew upon the resolve and skill of his own forces. Hannibal’s persistence and courage in the face of overwhelming odds exemplify the essence of self-reliance—the ability to trust in oneself and one’s resources, no matter the circumstances. Similarly, Polanco’s quote calls us to develop our own inner strength and to trust in our ability to succeed, regardless of external factors.

Throughout history, many have embraced the principle of self-sufficiency as the key to their success. Abraham Lincoln, who rose from humble beginnings to become one of the greatest presidents in American history, often spoke of the importance of hard work and perseverance. Born in a log cabin, Lincoln worked tirelessly to educate himself and build a life through sheer determination. He did not rely on the privileges of others, but rather on his own ability to navigate life’s obstacles and find opportunities where none seemed to exist. His journey serves as a testament to the power of self-reliance and the belief that, through hard work and perseverance, anyone can shape their future, no matter the circumstances.

The lesson in Polanco’s words is one of empowerment. By relying on ourselves and refusing to depend on others for our happiness or success, we become masters of our own destiny. Self-reliance is not just about financial independence or personal success, but about developing a mindset that empowers us to face challenges head-on, without fear or hesitation. When we work for our own goals, we build the character and skills needed to adapt and thrive, no matter what difficulties arise. Polanco’s call to persevere and work for your own things is a call to develop the strength that will enable us to withstand the storms of life.

In our own lives, we must take Polanco’s message to heart. Each step we take toward independence and self-reliance strengthens our ability to handle adversity. This does not mean that we should shun collaboration or support, but rather that we should always maintain the inner resolve to stand on our own when necessary. Whether in career, relationships, or personal development, we must strive to work for our own goals and cultivate the resilience needed to navigate the challenges life throws at us.

The practical lesson here is to focus on building your own strength—through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to self-growth. Trust in your ability to succeed and find the courage to persevere even when the path is unclear. Let us take Polanco’s wisdom to guide us in every area of life, knowing that the more we rely on ourselves, the better prepared we are to face whatever the future brings. In doing so, we empower not only ourselves, but also those around us, by showing them the strength that comes from taking ownership of our lives and creating a future we can be proud of.