In Henry V, poet William Shakespeare, wrote "Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more." This message of perseverance is one that has proven to be utterly timeless, and even hundreds of years later is still extremely relevant. This particular message is one that we all must remember when it comes to escaping the confines of the "Rat Race."
There may be many reasons so many people have not yet escaped the Rat Race, and the key to escaping, is first knowing the reason why you are stuck.
They Are Oblivious to the Rat Race
Some people are simply not aware that they are in the Rat Race. Typically this mindset comes from a lack of education and awareness of the world around them.
They Do Not Have the Right Education
Some people are aware they are in the Rat Race. However, they do not have the insight or the proper education needed to escape. In most cases, it is a lack of financial education that is at the root of the problem.
Some People Are Content
There are also those who aware they are in the Rat Race, but they are content with this position. They may have a career or job that they genuinely love and find themselves happy with the life they have created. The root of the problem here is really lack of motivation--if someone is content and happy, it can be hard for them to find the motivation to grow and change.
Fear or Laziness
Being scared or lazy is another reason why so many still find themselves stuck in the race. There are those who are aware they are in the Rat Race, have acquired the knowledge to escape, but are too fearful or lazy to take that first step. Having the knowledgeable to change, does not mean someone has the tools or motivation to escape. Hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance are all essential to escaping. However, some people simply cannot overcome the fear of potential failure.
They Have Been Unsuccessful
There are some people who know they are in the Rat Race, who have the knowledge to escape and who have even found the motivation to escape, but who have failed in their past attempts. These individuals can easily fall back into the fourth category, after a single failed attempt. To escape this cycle they must be willing to find the strength to try again.
If you fall into the last category, it is important to not lose hope and to continue to hold on to that perseverance. With a strong foundation and the right attitude, it is only a matter of time before your efforts pay off. While it can be hard to find the energy and effort needed to try again after failure, you owe it to yourself to not give up. No matter what obstacles stand in your way, the reward of escaping the rat race and finding the life you deserve, is too important to give up on.