One individual who has defied others beliefs is Les Brown.

It started when he was just a baby. He was put up for adoption. Thankfully, he was adopted by a woman, Ms. Mamie Brown. She was a single parent, had limited financial resources, and little education, but she had a big heart. She adopted Les and his twin brother.

As Les was growing up he encountered difficulties in school. He was incorrectly labeled as a "slow learner". When labels are put on children, they damage a child's self-esteem.

However, Les was persistent. He refused to believe what others believe his abilities to be. He had big dreams. He had no formal education beyond high school, yet he had determination and was very persistent. He furthered his education by self-education. He had a passion to learn, to understand the human potential.

Today he is a very successful professional speaker and author. Growing up his self esteem and confidence were low. It took him many years to realize his potential.

Les is an example of someone who has overcome others peoples belief.

"You cannot expect to achieve new goals or move beyond your present circumstances unless you change."