When Life Gets in the Way

No matter where I go, inevitably I run into someone who is doing something but would rather be doing something else. I read one person’s description of that as the “yes-but” syndrome.

Judging by how many unhappy faces I see in the cars sitting in traffic jams on the interstate in Orlando, I’d say it’s an epidemic. People just aren’t happy these days. Why? They had dreams of doing something they really love but then… well, you know… life gets in the way.

Here’s what I tell clients, and generally anyone who will listen.

There is always a space between the here and now, and the living your dream part. That’s tough, especially if you don’t take advantage of the moments you have. I bet the guy next to me really wants to be a golf pro. While he’s sitting there in his pizza delivery vehicle, he could be listening to podcasts of pro golfing. Not only would now be better, he’d be laying the foundation for his dream job.

Take small steps. They make a huge difference in your disposition. Maybe you only have an hour while your daughter takes ballet. Fine. Plan ahead for that 60 minutes and work on your dream goal. Bring your laptop and construct a plan. Only have fifteen minutes? No worries. Make a list of the things you have to do when you do have more time. You’ll be surprised at how much you can accomplish in tiny snippets of time. And you’ll be happier and have more hope in your day to day life.

Keep notes. Always. If you’re in the car, you can take notes into a digital recorder. Use several computers? Use an online note system and have it pulled up while you’re on. I use two. For ideas and research, I use Evernote. I love it. I can clip articles, websites, etc. right into my account. For my to-do lists I use Google Chrome Quick Notes. It’s a free app in the Google Chrome Store. If you create an account, it will save your notes online so you’ll have them anywhere. Don’t lose your brilliance. Trust me, when life gets in the way, you won’t remember it when you have a pen and paper.

Look, you may not be where you’re going yet, but you can move in the direction of your dream each and every day. It keeps the dream alive and reminds you and those around you of your purpose. It adds joy to an otherwise mundane existence and ignites your fire of passion. So, take advantage of those moments when life gets in the way. You’ll be glad you did.

Does life get in your way? Is it blocking your vision now? Share it here!