"We must be willing to let go of the life we've planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us."
-Joseph Campbell
If you don't already know, I'm a big believer of the power words hold. They can help or hurt, inspire and destroy. I look at positive words having the ability to empower, uplift, and enrich people. When I first heard the Joseph Campbell quote above, it struck a chord with me. Having a planned life is great, but it's not always realistic. How true is it that many times disappointment, anger, and sadness stem from setbacks, and not having life go as we might have planned? When you are stuck in a plan, the more likely you find it a challenge in looking for other possibilities. Likely, when you're stuck you may miss out on the opportunities that may be standing right in front of you.
The life that is waiting for you can be something that you may not imagine for yourself, and something that may seem out of reach. If you allow yourself to be open to prospects that present them self, you never know where that road may lead. Allowing yourself to "let go" as the quote states, you may come find yourself living a life that you find exciting and enriching.
So, how do you get to the life that is waiting for you?
1) Shift Your Thinking. It's not about failures or mishaps; it's about lessons and take-aways. Look at the things you have learned from life experiences, rather than looking at it as a waste of time
2) Make Every Moment Work for You. Every day, and every moment you are spending your time and energy. Why not make each moment count. Work on your goals one step at a time. Work on what you want to do, not just the things you need to do
3) Look to Your Left and Right. You may believe that there is only one course or one direction for yourself, so you don't bother to look around at the other paths that are available. When doing this you might miss out on prospects that can benefit you.
4) Flexibility. Be flexible and receptive to ideas, thoughts, and inspiration. Focus on what has gone right, instead of what has gone wrong. Something may seem really out there, and a challenge to pursue, but remember you can do anything you are determined to do.
5) Be Present. It's necessary to look at the past and future, but you can't get so wrapped up in it that it's taking away from the present. The importance of living in the present, is important as it helps you focus on what you currently are working toward. It helps you pay attention to opportunities which present them self today.