Often I sit and listen to people describe their lives and being stuck in their daily routine. Whether it is a dead-end job or a relationship that appears to be on a string of similar relationships, they continue to complain and question their lives, indeed their motives for living in this version of groundhog day.
Many times the conversations lead to adventure or the lack thereof. Many have never ventured past their own community. Many never dared to dream past what they were taught when young. I’m not talking about packing a bag and heading to Europe, although that is a delightful way to find oneself. I am talking about searching within oneself for the adventure that lies within all our hearts.
I told someone recently that there is a moment in each day that we can change the world. Sounds like a grand scheme, but it is in a very simple way, true. Many people that feel stuck, present that way to others. It is a sign of a depressed person. Some questions I ask: when was the last time you called a person checking you out at a store by their name? When was the last book they read? When was the last time they truly enjoyed a dinner?
These questions paint a picture of a person possibly is in despair, a person feeling stuck. I ask them if you could change your life, no questions asked, what would their life look like. Some can only paint a bleak picture of having some more money to pay bills or a nicer car. Others paint a grand picture of travel, finishing school (or going for the first time), opening their own business or even actually painting a picture.
These people are ready to engage in conversations about how these dreams are possibly within reach. With a little careful planning and understanding dreams can happen. And about those moments in each day that we can change the world, we are presented with moments where we can expand our world. It may be as simple as a conversation with a friend or even a stranger (the store clerk?). All I can say is, keep your eyes, ears and especially, your heart open. The world is bigger than you can imagine and yours if you are curious and adventurous!
The Journey of a thousand miles 