Humans are curious by nature and curiosity keeps us evolving, inventing, and growing.  We often seek for better, for more, and for meaning.

Living a full and rewarding life is something to which many of us fundamentally aspire.  As we get busy and settle into our daily routines, sometimes we meander through life instead of living it purposefully.  “Life is good,” we say to ourselves.  Yet, sometimes we feel that it could be better.  It’s that feeling, when nurtured by your passion, that motivates you to take action.

In his new song, “One Way Trip,” Andrew Sherriff, Mary’s son, has beautifully captured the feeling of the human journey for self discovery and growth.  As a young aspiring musician, artist, and photographer, Andrew is off to find his future, while traveling for the next six months or maybe longer!

“Oh, to be young again!” you might be thinking.  With your current job, family responsibilities, and financial commitments, there is no way you could follow your dreams.  Think again!  Are you establishing imaginary boundaries for yourself?

The boundaries we impose upon ourselves are often more formidable than the actual limitations to getting what you want.  Fear is one of the emotions that keep these boundaries so strong, whether it be fear of losing what you have or fear of what you might be getting yourself into.

“We gain strength, and courage, and confidence by each experience in which we really stop to look fear in the face… we must do that which we think we cannot.”

Eleanor Roosevelt

We’re not suggesting that you leap into action without critical thought and planning.  That would be foolish, as it could set you further back.

We suggest that you take some time to be curious about your life, what makes it wonderful, and what could make it even more wonderful.  Then, think about how you got where you are.  For example, discipline, focus, taking measured steps, listening to your gut, saving, working hard.  Whatever it was, understand the ‘power’ you have to make things happen.  You’ve done it before, you can do it again.

Now, take time to dream about the ideal.  If you pictured for yourself (and your family) the most amazing life you could live, what would it look like?  Describe it in detail and discuss it with your loved ones.  What is their ideal?  What is your combined ideal?

Keep talking to clarify the details and figure out what you need to do to get there.  Before you take action, map out the plan for your journey.  What do you need to do financially?  What about your work/career?  What needs to happen with your family?  How can they prepare for the journey?  What other support do you need?

Keep in mind that significant changes take time, so be patient.  Keep focused on your ideal and your plan by keeping it alive.  For example, Lia and her husband came up with the 5 F’s for their ideal (some would suggest 6 F’s).  “Family, Fitness, Fun, Flexibility and Financial Freedom” have guided their decisions when faced with choices to be made.

Both Chuck Palahniuk in Damned, and Marsha Qualey in Just Like That, said:

“Life is short, death is forever.”

We would add to this quote that life is also precious so don’t waste the time you have to make it the best you can.

Recipe of the Week:  Simple Lentil Soup