It's a new year. And I'm ready. Well, kind of. I am hustling for my dreams from the comfort of my home office (read: my bed). And yes, I am still wearing my pajamas at 2 p.m. in the afternoon. And I forgot to eat lunch. But I couldn't be happier. Because this is the life I created. And tomorrow will be different. I'll be up early for my executive committee meeting and then I have an interview for a local tv show to kick start my day.
But that's the point.
I'm passionate about helping people. I love variety and adventure. And this life I've created, it's a life that suits me. I am happy. And I am proof that anyone can chase their dreams, no matter how big or small. I share my experience to offer a counter perspective to that Nasty Nellie voice that tells you your dream is ridiculous or that you can never have the life you want. "Why do you think you can do that?" or "Who are you to be happy?" it might whisper or SCREAM.
And it's a new year. So I am coming at you today to speak to you on behalf of your dreams. Because maybe, just maybe, that dream deep within you is ready to be birthed.
Every day my clients tell me they want something and then fear creeps in and they make excuses for why they can't/won't work towards their goal. (I know, it happens to me too if I let down my guard).
I'm too busy.
I don't have enough money.
I'm not smart enough.
I'm too old. I'm too young.
The list goes on and on.
And what we forget with this never ending list of excuses: we are not promised tomorrow. So if you are putting off your dreams, the life you want to live, until you've saved $20K or the kids graduate or you have a spouse to support you then maybe you don't really want a different reality you just want a dreamland to visit in your head now and then. And that's fine if you are being honest with yourself. You are either going to go after what you want with gusto or continue to cling to your excuses.
What do you choose?
I double dog dare you to start. Today.
Instead of saying you can't afford to change jobs or start a business, create a list of ways that you could cut your budget to save money to fund your dreams.
Instead of insisting you aren't smart enough to do work you love find someone who needs your help. We are all an expert at something. Then change your inner story. "I am smart enough! I do have what it takes to do work I love." Boom!
Instead of clinging to your vacation days like they are a life saver keeping you afloat (been there, done that), create a life you don't need to escape from. Because when you are living your dreams, adventure is around every corner. Life is energizing. You live without regrets.
Really, what it boils down to is...
What is your dream worth?
To me, it is worth everything. The day I quit my corporate gig my dream won out over my excuses and fears. The desire to live my purpose had grown so big inside me it overshadowed everything until it was the only thing that mattered. It was the light at the end of my tunnel. I was ready to embrace the unknown. And every day I recommit to it.
I choose to be happy.
I choose to help people in a way only I can.
I choose to live my dreams instead of my fears.