I remember reading that if you think about an outcome you want to have happen – a trip, a big presentation at work, a new division launched, getting a puppy, whatever – if you envision this outcome in your head, your brain will automatically start mapping in the intermediate steps you need to take, or other things that need to be true that aren’t yet, in order to make it happen.
Lots of project management books use this phenomenon as part of explaining why brainstorming and mind-mapping can be very productive.So how do you take action on your dream life? What’s holding you back? What needs to be happen between there and where you are now?
The first thing to do is pinpoint what it actually is that keeps you from your dream life. You may find it easy to determine what it is. You may find this challenging.
– Are my work hours wearing me out?– Is the nature of my job mentally draining?– Does financial stress burden me?– Do I fear venturing out of my comfort zone?– Do I think my family would be disappointed if I changed career paths?
The list is not exhaustive but should help you take an introspective look at yourself. You may find that your fear of “wasting your education” holds you back.
Also, if you’re open to being vulnerable, and getting honest feedback, ask your partner or a friend for their perspective on your situation. They can give you their opinion, which will be insightful.