08/29/2025
Don’t Dim Your Greatness | Cautionary Tales
When I was in grade school, I scored a perfect 100% on the California Achievement Test two years in a row. The second time, the school didn’t believe me.
They called me in on a Saturday morning, sat me in an empty classroom, and placed the same test in front of me with a proctor standing over my shoulder.
Halfway through, I realized what was happening—they thought I cheated.
And instead of proving my brilliance again, I caved. On the last two questions, I marked the wrong answers on purpose. The proctor even asked if I was sure. I said yes, handed in my paper, and walked out.
I regret that moment. I knew the answers. But I gave them mediocrity instead of greatness.
The Gentlemen Code #153
Never shrink yourself to fit someone else’s doubts. If they don’t believe in you, shine brighter. If they question your results, let your results speak louder. Don’t dim your greatness for anyone.
Set the Example.
This is just one of the Cautionary Tales in my upcoming book “The Cheat Code”stories of real mistakes, hard lessons, and the wisdom every man can use to level up.
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