So many of us have secret dreams, hopes, desires, and aspirations. Unfortunately, we often let other things hold us back from the happiness and success we could be achieving. What's holding you back?
Is it time? The number one answer to why people don't do what they really would like to do, is a lack of time. So what is your time being spent on? For many, it's juggling family, work, obligations, maybe caring for a sick or aging relative, and appointments. But what if you could take your next day off and really focus in on what's important? What if you decided in advance every week that your schedule would only be filled with the most valuable things? You'd have to keep your job, in most cases. Family is important, too. I know for some, making time to grow their faith is important too. But there's one category that gets overlooked that may be stopping many people...what about "down time"? What do you do with it? I know, at first, most would say they have NO downtime - but is that true? Most people who claim to have no time somehow manage to know what's going on every week on all their favorite shows. They watch shows like American Idol, Biggest Loser, Army Wives, 2 or 3 football games a week, not to mention that they've seen all the newest shows as they come out. What if instead of that hour or two was used on something you pre-decided was important to you? You'd have anywhere from 5 to 14 hours a week to work on it. It could be exercising, quality time doing something active and fun with family or friends, it could be spent writing that book, taking classes to learn something you've always wanted to do, or even just get more sleep to help you be more productive every day.
What if time isn't you're issue? Is it fear? Many people are afraid of risk, and in this unstable economy, that makes sense. The only problem is, if you never overcome your fears, you'll always hold yourself back from what could be your greatest adventure! What would you do if you didn't let fear hold you back? Would you meet someone new? Get to know your neighbors? Try to start a new business? Pursue investing? Resolve issues with a friend or relative in need of repair? Start a family? Change careers? Volunteer to help out a cause or group of people that are important to you? Life is short. Try to figure out some "baby steps" you can take towards overcoming those fears and living the life you've always wanted. It's time to put an end to your fears!
Is it a lack of money? For many, this is a real issue. Everyone is going as fast as they know how, some work more hours than they should be capable of, yet they just can't get to those important things. So what are some solutions to get you on your way to a better quality of life? Could you have a yard sale and get rid of the stuff in your house you don't really need? Would a part-time job or starting a low-risk, low cost home business be your answer? What about reigning in your spending? Most people have no idea what they spend a month on fast food, coffees, eating out, movies, impulse buys, and unplanned miscellaneous items they pick up while shopping for something else. Keep a record of every penny you spend for the next 30 or 60 days. Maybe there's a category you can cut that would free up the money you need that, over time, could help you realize some of those overdue but not forgotten dreams and desires.
Whatever is holding you back, let this month be your month to really break free! Take control of your destiny! Stop letting others and less important stuff keep you from experience a life filled with satisfaction, meaning, adventure, and purpose.
Keep your hopes and dreams alive! Good luck!
