It's my fault

When was the last time you  heard someone say, "It's my fault; I did it; I am to blame." I am reminded of the old Happy Days episode where Fonzie couldn't get the words, "I'm wrong," out of his mouth.

There is a downside to living an untethered life, making your own rules, pushing boundaries and living on the edge - when things go wrong you can't point your finger at someone else. If you want a high level of personal freedom, don't expect someone else to bail you out when things don't go as planned.

I fear that too many of us want the freedom and liberty to live life on our own terms, but we don't want to accept the consequences that come as a result. Most of the people who made an impact on the world, challenged conventional thinking and took risks paid a price for the life they choose.

• Churchill's courage and effort in saving England was rewarded by being voted out of office.
• Sir William Wallace was tortured, executed and put on public display at age 34.
• Nathan Hale was viewed as a hero by the American Revolution and a traitor by Britian.
• Mark Cuban is viewed as arrogant, outspoken and self-centered.

The list could continue, but this is sufficient to make a point. You want to play by your own rules, you might alienate a few people, be viewed as an egomaniac, or simply face the consequences of standing on your principles. If you have the courage to pioneer new worlds, be prepared to take the arrows that may come your way.