D
o you ever wonder what it feels like to take the road less traveled? Take the undiscovered path? I find myself frequently wishing I had the courage to take the unconventional rout in life, take a risk, weather it’s a different direction in your career, a new relationship, or just that adventure that you have always wanted to take but just haven’t had the time. Lately I feel like I have taken a lot of those unexpected, impulsive paths, and I have never felt better. When you are afraid to step into the unknown and don’t accept serendipitous and unexpected happenings, you may miss out on some of the best experiences in life that will mold you as a person.
People sometimes think you need to break away from the ‘known’ and ‘familiar’ in your life. For me, this has always been my family. And yes, sometimes life requires moving, taking a job far away, not talking on the phone every day with those you love. But being close to my family is a blessing, not a hindrance. In reality, it isn’t my wish to stay close to my family that inhibits my courage, creativity, or ability to take risks, it is my own self-confidence in my talents and dreams. So if there is something or someone in your life that makes you comfortable and happy, hold on to it, because these things are hard to come by. Instead, rely on those people as a support system and believe in yourself, take a chance and you may find something in life that is unexpected, but fulfilling.
Many times, doing what is expected, or what you think is the right path, may take you away from who you really are. I have found a
Photo courtesy of Thomas Leonardi
lot of times that doing what is expected and ‘normal’ often means not being myself, or conforming to expectations. But, fitting into a mold or trying to be like everyone else around you will not make you stand out or bring you happiness. Being successful and finding happiness (whatever those mean to you) is about taking risks, being confident in yourself, and most importantly, being yourself. If you can’t be yourself on the path you are on, it will be difficult to find happiness.
I am starting to learn the amazing consequences of a chance meeting and an increasing need to follow a potentially unconventional career path. I have also learned by being far away from home, that I can have my family, my stability, and I don’t need to break away from them to move into my future. In fact, I feel stronger, and more confident around them. They will always be my first foundation. But without taking these chances, I will never find my future, success, happiness, and maybe even a new foundation to rely on in my life.
So if something feels right, take a chance, be confident in yourself and don’t give up on your dreams.
