Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech is probably the most powerful and eloquent composition in history. His unwavering belief, combined with his heroic persona - which was built upon compassion and benevolence - have not only touched the hearts of many but have truly inspired real changes in the world when literally everything was set against him.

To this date, his famous speech that catalyzed numerous landmark legislation including the Civil Rights Acts of 1964, and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 still resonates in modern society with lessons that are just as valuable today, as they were in the past.

Here are three actionable takeaways from Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech:

Pursue Your Dream

The single strongest (and most obvious) message from his speech is to have a dream. How many times have you heard this cliché only to regard it as a myth? Perhaps you did have a dream, however, one thing is for certain: if you don’t believe in yourself, how can you inspire others to believe in you?

We know it is hard - just ask Dr. King yourself - however, it is the hard things in life that are the most significant and worthwhile. No matter if you're an entrepreneur, an employee, or even a student - have a dream, set your goals, and pursue this dream even when times are tough; it is the only way to achieve real success.

Never Give Up

Life is not meant to be easy, if it was, nothing we do will have any true meaning or value. Martin Luther King had a hard road. He faced roadblocks that many of us will never have to face, nor understand - do you think your life is harder than his?

You may fail at times and this is inevitable en route to success, however, always remember, failure is just another word for learning. If you're willing to learn and never give up, you will find success.

Giving is Always Better and More Impactful than Receiving

Martin Luther King was born in a time where African-Americans were legally discriminated against. This didn't stop him from getting involved with the Civil Rights Movement which ultimately led to his assassination in 1968. In a time where most people would've chosen to shy away from the public, Dr. King chose to give up his life to make a difference for his family, his people, and his country.

As he once said, "Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'what are you doing for others?" Always putting others before himself and giving rather than receiving, Dr. King has successfully made the world a much better place.

You may think to yourself – well I’m no hero, I’m just a regular guy, what could I do? That's true, not everyone is meant to be a leader, however, it doesn't take a hero to be kind and giving. Even the least significant act of kindness can mean a lot for others, and who knows, maybe your random act of kindness can spark another, and another, and another...

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