“If you don’t know where you are going, you’ll end up some place else.” – Y. Berra
Many times in life I have been derailed from my goals or dreams due to unexpected events, family emergencies, failed relationships, and so on. However, what has never left me is the drive, the motivation and the perseverance to obtain a vision that resides within me.
I currently work three jobs in addition to caring for my mother with Alzheimers. As I get older, I am becoming more intentional in my decision making and planning. I know what I want and have become more diligent with the level of effort I am putting forth to enhance my lifestyle, manage life’s stressors and press towards my goals and dreams. It does not matter how much you have going on in life, there are choices and you do have control over what comes in and out of your life.
Below are a couple strategies I have introduced into my life in order to chart out my Road Map to Success:
A. Develop an Interactive Online Vision Board. I use Dream it Alive. This site will assist you in navigating short term goals in every area of your life, from career, leisure, relationships, spirituality, physical health, etc. You can order a tangible copy of your vision board once completed. I place mine on my bedroom mirror to keep me focused on my future. Revisit your vision board every couple months and when your goals are complete, develop new ones. Keep it going, keep it alive!
B. Plan It! I have three separate calendars I complete each month that charts out my work schedule, my workout/health coaching schedule and my mom’s ongoing medical and caregiver schedule. I manage those three separate calendars, making sure I keep balance and ensure I am prioritizing my personal health and wellness. I revisit the calendars at the beginning of each week and make small adjustments as needed, without sacrificing my own needs. (note: do not feel guilty in saying no or enacting boundaries)
C. Look for Opportunities of Growth! We will never know it all in life. We always should seek to develop, enhance or strengthen a skill in order to achieve all our goals. I am continuously looking for trainings, certifications, or skill-building events that align with my vision. We are evolving creatures who need to expand our abilities in order to strengthen humanity. Existing in your current state will not only make you unhappy and unfulfilled, but also will not benefit society as a whole.
D. Give Back! Did you know that when you decide to give back to someone, to a community or organization, you actually grow? Try it, if you don’t believe me. When you share your gifts with another, you actually are strengthening your own abilities and enhance your existing skills. Those whom you serve will have “asks” of you that cause you to rise-up and show-up. When you show-up, you validate who you are and what you stand for.
E. Enlarge your Community! Where would we be if we only knew one group of people? One of the most rewarding and beneficial things I have done in my life is to travel the world. I have taken the 4-hour climb up Mt. Sanai, Egypt at 3am in the morning. I have back-backed the desolate roads in Sighisoara, Romania and volunteered in the largest slums and refugee camps in Kenya, Africa. I’ve visited over 20 countries and have been to almost all 50 US States and 13 US territories. Through the experience and emersion of different cultures, I have learned more about myself, the world and humanity. My vision has become larger and my purpose is more directional. Travel in or out of your country, or even just your current community. Learn from others and expand your knowledge of other cultures.
When all else seems not to be available to you, have faith, dream it, write it, plan, and watch what you thought was impossible become possible. You have only one chance at this life. Live it on purpose!
Vivrant Wellness 