I don’t know who wrote this quote but it certainly resonates with me.

Making a big life change is scary – I should know, I’ve made enough of them. I’ve given up secure jobs to travel, I’ve extracted myself from failing relationships, and I’ve lived in several different countries around the world, including the island in the picture above. But the scariness is short lived. I’ve discovered that the fear I imagine is far worse than the reality of the experience.

Change for me is liberating. I like nothing more than the slightly “edgy” feeling of embarking on a new adventure, of stepping outside my comfort zone – it makes me feel alive!

Of course, I’m not suggesting life is all about relentless, perpetual change. There have been many times when I have been settled, content and taken time to enjoy a particular pastime or environment. But I am suggesting that living in any sort of long term compromise is bad for the soul!

As kids, most of us are naturally explorative. We are pioneers and adventurers! But the older we get, the harder it is to step out of our comfort zone, regardless of any desire to do so. It takes a concerted effort and a lot of support! The more “security” we have, the more “insecure” we seem to become and for some this can create a feeling of being trapped and unhappy.

We all get bored from time to time – that is why we have created so many activities and pastimes to fill our lives. We need continual stimulation to feel positive and inspired. But occasionally we become more restless and recognize that a bigger change or challenge is needed to rekindle our spirit of adventure.

It doesn’t matter whether it is a big change or a small change – any change is better than none if you feel unhappy or restless with your life. Much will depend on your circumstances, your personality and your financial situation, but these should not be constraints. There are ways around all situations with some “out of the box” thinking and general resourcefulness.

Learning to set and accomplish goals can be an important part of making successful life changes. Writing down your goals is also very important – it shows a sense of commitment and makes a statement of intent.

If you are ready to make a change in your life, start by making a short list, just 2 or 3 things you’d like to be different. Then work out a feasible plan to make these changes happen. Stay out of your imagination and keep everything very practical. Set a completion date and mark this on a calendar. Tell as many people as possible and talk to your family and friends. The more support you have the easier it will be to follow through.

Of course there will be some people who will want to convince you not to follow your dreams – but remember they are usually the ones who are too scared to make similar changes in their own lives.

Stay strong, and keep yourself focused on what is important to you – you will be an inspiration to others and you may find yourself living your lifestyle of choice sooner than you thought possible!

No regrets!

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