Abstract
The narrative created by American culture in the United States is that an individual can improve his or her life through hard work and perseverance. This depiction often places achievement in a vacuum and engenders the notion that personal motivation is the only tool needed to succeed in life. While personal drive and motivation are important components, these two traits are not the only factors contributing to individuals’ successes. For one could have all the motivation in the world, but never have the opportunity to demonstrate her or his excellence because of financial hardship or other life circumstances. The individualistic disposition of the American Dream invalidates the importance of resources and opportunities to succeed. When you look at my story, it is very easy to think that the reason why I am where I am today is solely because of my personal drive and self-motivation. I did have these traits, but I also had a supportive family, which included parents and grandparents who worked tirelessly to ensure I had opportunities to be successful and that I was prepared to flourish.
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© 2016 Christopher B. Newman
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Newman, C.B. (2016). An Inspirational and Onerous Journey from the Great Migration to the Academy. In: McGowan, B.L., Palmer, R.T., Wood, J.L., Hibbler, D.F. (eds) Black Men in the Academy. Palgrave Macmillan, New York. https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137567284_9
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137567284_9
Publisher Name: Palgrave Macmillan, New York
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