Often, things happen in our life that take us completely by surprise. We may lose our job, or someone in our family gets sick, or unexpected expenses put us in debt. The foundation that we've been standing on all of a sudden feels uneven and shaky, and we are left with, "Ok, so what happens now?" What door will we choose next?
When we begin to break free from our challenging situations and start to take those first few steps forward, it seems that's when everyone else in our circle all of a sudden has something to say or contribute! We all know they mean well, but sometimes, it can feel overwhelming because at the end of the day, we are the authors of our own life story.
"If you're aiming to be the best at what you do, you can't worry about whether your actions will upset other people, or what they will think of you."
-Quote by Tim. S. Grover, author of Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable
I recently came to a point in my own life where I now have several big and important decisions to make. And it's 100% my responsibility to take complete ownership of those decisions. Yes, if those around me have opinions or want to provide some advice, I'll gladly listen respectfully, but I am ultimately the one who decides where my next journey will take me. How will I build my life? What am I most passionate about that I've always wanted to do? Now's the time for me to make it all happen and it doesn't matter what anyone else thinks about it, because it's my life!
I truly should have been born in the 1950's based on my old-school music tastes, but I absolutely love Billy Joel! Although many of his hits are from the 70's and 80's, those songs still remain relevant and current somehow. I happen to have his 52nd Street album on vinyl, and the song that I've connected to the most is "My Life." It's a song that's upbeat and empowering with a little dash of gumption and grit.
I don't need you to worry for me 'cause I'm alright I don't want you to tell me it's time to come home I don't care what you say anymore, this is my life Go ahead with your own life, leave me alone
-Lyrics from "My Life," Billy Joel album, 52nd Street, 1978
Although the lyrics may seem a bit harsh, the way I interpret it is that it represents more of a self-talk, not actual phrases said directly to someone else. I believe the person expressing these words is trying to stay focused pursuing their dreams, and they want to block out some of the noise that's distracting them or making them second-guess the decisions they're about to confidently make.
When we are laser-focused on living our dream life, the end goal in mind is joy. Through the important life decisions we will be making, we want everything to work out in our favor so that we can live a more joyful and fulfilling life. Once we achieve what we want, and experience more joy, it's that much easier to shine our joy to others. So, it's ok to go inward a bit while you're focusing on your life. Those closest to you will understand and support you all the way.
What are you trying to make happen right now in your life? Feel free to comment below.
Shine on, my friends!
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