At some point in our lives, we all ponder the question of ‘have I missed the boat?’
It might be in the context of considering a new career, having children or finding the love of your life. You may be feeling a little deflated or overwhelmed but I want to offer this advice – it ain’t over until it’s over!
Whatever it is you want to achieve, you can do it but here are some important ideas to keep in mind.
You can do anything but not everything
Here’s the deal – you have not missed the boat.
But you may be focused on trying to do everything and unfortunately, that’s not possible, despite what we were told growing up.
It’s a hard truth of adulting that we need to prioritise what’s most important to us. Because we can do anything but not everything.
So if you feel like you’ve missed the boat, I want you to set aside some time and honestly answer these questions:
- What is it specifically that I feel I’ve missed my opportunity to pursue?
- How important is it for me to have this in my life?
- Why is having this important to me?
- How does this fit into my life vision?
- Am I willing to sacrifice other things in my life to pursue this goal?
- Am I truly committed to making this happen in my life?
If after considering these questions you confirm that yes you want the career/baby/property/partner/lifestyle and that you’re willing to do the work to make it happen then it’s time for the next important idea…
It may not look like you thought it would
Most of us tend to have a picture-perfect image of how we want our lives to be. Though in reality, it’s usually a much messier version of our dream.
But messier doesn’t mean it’s worse. It just means it’s a more realistic reflection of the complex and multi-faceted lives we live.
So stop expecting everything to be the perfect vision you imagined.
Accept that to bring your dream to life, it may look completely different.
It may turn out that your dream job is unglamorous but it brings you joy and fulfilment every single day.
Your dream partner may not be tall, dark & handsome but he makes you laugh constantly and is you’re biggest supporter.
Motherhood may involve fostering, adopting or being a step-parent – all of which are no less a role than being a birth mother.
So instead of thinking I’ve missed the boat, start asking yourself:
How could I make this work?
Give yourself permission to let go of the old expectations and start creating what you want based on where you are right now.
Stop putting it off
If you truly want to pursue your dream, then stop waiting.
The time will never be right and opportunity rarely just taps us on the shoulder.
Instead, we need to go out and make it happen and there is no better time than right now.
So start today.
Take the first step, no matter how small. And then continue to take action every single day.
Talk to people, ask for help, get advice and be open to unimagined possibilities.
Because your dreams are worth pursuing and you have not missed the boat unless you decided to stop trying.
So get into action, because you my friend have got this!
If you’re ready to find more happiness and fulfilment, it might be time to consider working with a coach.
Schedule a time to talk to find out how I can help you create a more joyful life, sooner!