Every week, I choose a motivational / inspirational quote to have on my cubicle wall. I share it with my staff, sometimes other managers in the company, and often with a friend.
Recently, as I emailed my friend my quote for the week, I realized how it not only applied to my professional life, but my personal life as well:
Do not wait for ideal circumstances, nor the best opportunities; they will never come. ~Janet Erskine Stuart
You hear the cliché that “life is too short”. And often times, the people quoting this age old cliché are in the next breath, making excuses for not doing something because the time is not right or a better opportunity might come along. I, for one, am tired of the excuses.
I spent way too many years letting opportunity pass me by because I was too afraid to take a chance. I had reasons that sounded good but I realize now that often times the reasons were excuses with a hollow ring. In this life of renewal I’m living, I’m learning that even if the circumstances aren’t ideal, taking advantage of an opportunity can lead me to another level and truly bring me pure moments of joy…
When looking at what I’m presented with, I know that there are still some chances I miss – and that’s ok. I know I must use a level of common sense and make logical choices – but I no longer wait for things to be “perfect”. I go with my instincts and live with the ramifications of my choices, and I’m OK with that, too.
And deep in my heart and within the recesses of my mind, I know that age old cliché is right. Life truly is too short. Each day that passes, I realize how truly blessed I am to have this life – I have my health, a good job, truly good and caring friends, and the opportunity to live life to the fullest.
For the first time in years, I’m not waiting for my life to become perfect –I'm living it each day, no matter what comes my way.
And I’m damned OK with that…