There are people who always follow traditional rules and never question the status quo.

And there are people, on the other hand, who do the opposite — they don’t follow rules and they challenge the status quo.

They can’t stand the rules because they want to do something extraordinary. They want to leave a legacy. They want to make the world a better place. And the rules are the barricades.

Don’t get me wrong. I understand the value of following rules to maintain order. Yes, in some cases, we have to follow. In fact, we need people who can follow orders. We (still) need them.

But we should also acknowledge people who push the boundaries, people who ignore the traditional methods (because they’ve proven that these methods don’t really work), and people who do everything to leave an impact, create change, and discover something new.

Even if that means breaking the rules.

These people are the ones who can change the world.

It could be your spouse, relatives, coworkers, neighbors, or friends.

Or it could be you.

Google’s co-founder Larry Page once said, “If you’re changing the world, you’re working on important things. You’re excited to get up in the morning.”

The good news is that anyone can change the world in their own ways. For example, we can create a product to better people’s lives, or build a community of people who want to protect the environment or people living their dreams and doing what they love so they can help others do the same.

Or by leading. Or by helping. Or by being an example for every human being.

At this moment, we all have the privilege. Anyone can connect with like-minded individuals, create a useful product, and inspire others through their actions, their words. Then spread their message. Then share their inspiring stories. Thank you, Internet.

But here’s one thing: To make that happen, we should learn to decide for ourselves rather than follow orders that keep us from achieving change.

We should learn to trust our ideas, our intuition, and take actions. 

Because even though we have the technology and the tools and the connection and the resources, if we can’t choose to decide for ourselves, if we can’t choose to follow our intuition, if we can’t choose the path that works for us, then we’ll all get the same results.

Nothing will be changed. Nothing will be improved.

If you want to do something bigger and impossible, if you want to change the world, and if you want to leave an impact or a legacy, stop following everything. Instead, trust your intuition, try your ideas and do something you believe can help the world a better place. Because… who knows?

“We can change the world and make it a better place. It is in your hands to make a difference.” — Nelson Mandela