In a world flooded with influencers, billionaires, and “alpha mindsets,” it’s easy to look at figures like Donald Trump or Elon Musk and wonder—what would it be like to live like them? To speak without hesitation, to act without apology, to lead with an iron sense of certainty. To be, in essence, the protagonist of your own life story.
But before we put on the red tie or fire up the SpaceX jet, we need to ask: what does it really mean to live like a protagonist—and is it something we should even strive for?
The Myth of the Hero
Trump and Musk are often cast as anti-heroes of the modern age. Both polarizing, both admired and criticized in equal measure. They’ve built cult followings not just because of what they do—but because of how they do it.
They break rules. Ignore norms. Speak their minds. Make chaos look like confidence.
They live like they’re untouchable. And that creates an illusion many crave: the freedom to do whatever they want without fear, shame, or consequence.
But is that the same as being a protagonist?
The Real Meaning of Being the Protagonist
Let’s redefine the term. A protagonist isn’t just someone at the center of the story. A true protagonist is someone who takes responsibility for their life arc, evolves through conflict, and makes meaningful choices. It’s not about dominance. It’s about direction.
So while Trump may bulldoze through criticism and Musk may troll his way through Twitter, that doesn’t automatically make them role models for a meaningful life.
The question isn’t: how can I be more like them?
The better question is: how can I live my life with the same intensity, purpose, and narrative clarity—without losing my values?
Step 1: Own Your Narrative
Both Trump and Musk have mastered one thing: narrative control.
Trump built the “outsider fighting the system” myth. Musk positioned himself as the rebellious genius trying to save humanity. Whether or not these narratives are objectively true, they feel true to their audiences—and that’s powerful.
Actionable Insight: Create your own life story. What chapter are you in? What conflict are you overcoming? What mission drives you? Write it down. Make it real. Then start acting like the main character.
Step 2: Be Unapologetically Decisive
Protagonists act. They make decisions, take risks, and accept the outcome—good or bad.
Trump never hesitates to make a move, even if it’s controversial. Musk makes billion-dollar bets on rockets, AI, or tunnels under LA. That decisiveness sets them apart.
Actionable Insight: Stop waiting for perfect conditions. Start making small, bold decisions daily. Momentum builds identity. Clarity follows action.
Step 3: Ignore the Noise—But Not the Truth
Both men are known for their ability to ignore critics. That kind of mental armor can be powerful—but also dangerous. There’s a difference between tuning out negativity and becoming delusional.
Actionable Insight: Develop a filter, not a wall. Accept feedback from trusted sources. Reject noise that doesn’t serve your mission. Self-awareness is your compass.
Step 4: Embrace a Mission Bigger Than You
What keeps people drawn to Musk is his vision. Whether it’s Mars colonization or clean energy, it feels like he’s working toward something grand.
Trump’s appeal to his followers is similar—he represents a fight against something they fear. Both are fueled by purpose, even if their methods differ.
Actionable Insight: What are you building toward? Not just career-wise, but for your community, your values, your growth? A life without mission is just a to-do list.
Step 5: Don’t Just Play the Role—Grow Into It
The greatest trap is mistaking aesthetics for authenticity. Just because you sound bold, dress confident, or tweet like a boss doesn’t mean you’ve done the inner work.
Trump and Musk didn’t become who they are overnight—they were forged through decades of wins, losses, public scrutiny, and relentless belief in their own stories.
Actionable Insight: Protagonists grow. They change. They learn from mistakes. Be bold, but also be open. That’s the real power move.
So… Can You Live Like Them?
Yes—but not by copying their behavior blindly.
You can live as your own protagonist—with just as much power, clarity, and courage—by writing your story on your terms. Own your voice. Make decisions with conviction. Tune into a mission that outlives you. And stay grounded in growth, not ego.
That’s not just living like Trump or Musk.
That’s living better.
What’s your story? What kind of protagonist do you want to be? Let’s talk in the comments. And if this gave you something to think about, share it with someone writing their own narrative.
You are the author. Now go create something worth reading.
