I'm a sucker for stories where the narrator explains how they worked in a job they hated, but felt tethered to it because of money, responsibility and fear, then somehow managed to gain the courage and confidence to quit and start a new life doing what they love. And how the happiness they feel in their life now makes them only wish they would have taken the leap sooner.
They speak of fear and overwhelming uncertainty and that they even get a little scared now, but the feeling they get from living from their heart propels them forward.
She spoke of trading in her corporate job to make chocolates instead - something she has always loved to do and had been doing as a hobby until she finally got the courage to make it her full time gig. While she was telling me her story all I could see was her beaming smile. Her happiness was contagious.
Trading in Paralyzing Fear For Powerful Change
What we should do can paralyze us and keep us so stuck that we tune out what we feel is truly right for us. That inner voice that says there is more than this, or that living the status quo isn't satisfying anymore. Those hidden secrets we keep of things we would rather do, but feel awkward letting anyone in on them because we are adults now and change doesn't come easily.
But what if we changed our view of change? Life isn't static, so expecting it to stay the same feels heavy and constricting. Life will give us little (and big) bumps along the way, and holding on to what we know may seem like the best way to cope, but sometimes it's those bumps that help us take a new path.
When we acknowledge and receive the notions we have, we give ourselves more confidence to accept our true desires to make a change. Instead of pushing away what we really want, invite it to come in. It's in that moment that you open yourself up to a world that will begin to conspire to help you in so many different ways. The perfect teacher could appear, or workshops or book, opportunities, people with similar ideas and desires, and your very own inspiration can begin to flow.
It's Time to Daydream, Baby
What is it that you secretly would like to do? Is it a new job or career, or even picking up a new hobby? Make a list of what your dream life looks like. Let your heart speak to you. I highly recommend getting outside, alone with a notepad and pen (leave your phone and laptop behind!) and letting your imagination take you away. Notice the change you feel in your body when you dream up your dream life.
And then begin. Begin by feeling what it would feel like to be living that life. Take baby steps, but start. Every single step counts. Once you get that momentum going, there will be no stopping you.
I know these are all things easier said than done, but what will be more difficult many years from now is accepting the fact that you didn't try.
Get a little scared, face the fear, it's good for us to step into what's uncomfortable -- it makes our world bigger. Besides, you have nothing to lose. As the saying goes, no one is getting out of here alive.
What about you? Do these words help or inspire? What's on your list or how has change worked in your favor? Share you comments here, I would love to hear from you.
Lots of love,
Danielle
PS Do you know someone who is contemplating change? Send this to them. It may just be what they need to hear.