Friday 19 February 2016

February 19, 2016 Chautauqua


Beth's Ponderings


 
     If we wait for the moment when everything, absolutely everything is ready, we shall never begin.  - Ivan Turgenev


   What is something on your “Someday” list?  What do you dream of doing when the conditions of your life are all just so and the stars are aligned right?


   Instead of waiting, why not try an experiment?


   More and more, than any other time in history, we are now seeing others’ experiments in virtually all areas of life via books, movies, or social media.  Experiments such as trying to minimize household trash, eating different foods, getting healthier, starting businesses, and more.


   Experiments are good because they are short-term and there is minimal investment.  Plus, the pressure to be instantly successful - real or self-induced - is much less.


   We all have an idea of something we’d like to try “someday” - a career change, a lifestyle change, a business venture, a new hobby, or a change of scenery.  If we do take the leap, and invest our all into the project, too often it seems we discover we’re not as happy as we thought and it isn’t the right fit for us.


   Many times, this is because we are attracted to the “idea” of whatever it is we are interested in, because we’ve been told that everyone else is into it, and we don’t want to be left out.  Yet, it is the “idea” - that gets us in trouble when we discover the “reality” of whatever we started.  But often we feel we are stuck and can’t quit because of the time, energy, money, and other resources we’ve invested.


   So, before you quit your job, open a retail outlet, or spend all your money, try an experiment for a few weeks or months.  Volunteer, take some vacation time to job shadow someone if possible, or take a class.  Book a table at a market or have a tail-gate sale.  With a short-term commitment, you will get a better grasp of the reality of your project. 


   After you’ve had a chance to experience first-hand what the situation really entails, you’ll be able to make a better decision as to whether to continue your experiment longer or devote your energy elsewhere.


Beth

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