You Are The Exception, Not The Rule
When you see others living your dream, do you ask, “How can I make that happen?” Or do you make excuses and say, “I can’t do that because…”
Do you imagine that everyone else has it easy - that they have none of the obstacles that you face?
“Well, of course, Angelina already dropped the baby weight. She’s literally paid to work out all day….”
“Well, of course, Sue had time to write a book, she’s a teacher and doesn’t do anything all summer…”
“Well, of course, Ruth can travel all the time, she’s single and doesn’t have any responsibilities…”
We label anyone “living the dream” as the exception, while citing our laundry list of obstacles as the many reasons why we are just the rule.
(Any He’s Just Not That Into You fans out there?)
But you are not the rule. You are the exception, hiding behind the rule.
Obstacles exist for everyone, but what separates the exceptions from the rules is the choice to quit using our obstacles as excuses.
Pursuing our dreams, traveling, and exploring this great big world takes courage. But what I’ve learned is that I’m the only one responsible for what I get out of this life; and if I want something, I have to do everything in my power to make it happen.
I can’t wait for my parents to give me permission to go to that country they think is “too dangerous.” (I’m 31, so I do not need permission; and their fears are their own responsibility to work out, not mine.)
I can’t wait to win the lottery so I have enough money “to do it right.” (If I win the lottery, I can always visit again in a more glamorous fashion.)
I can’t wait until I have a husband in case “I get lonely.” (Seriously? Just no!)
I can’t wait for my friends to finally have time off from work so we can all go together. (If that’s the case, I might be waiting forever.) Instead, I tell my friends what I’m doing and invite them to join me, making it clear I’m going either way.
And you, my incredible friend, can’t wait either because your life is passing you by, one excuse at a time.
It is time to make yourself the exception.
Whatever you want to do, make a plan and do it.
If you want to travel, be more independent, make a career change, or take more risks. Identify what is holding you back and make a plan to tackle those obstacles. Before you know it, you, too, will be the exception, not the rule.
If this idea overwhelms you or you’re not sure where to start, let’s set up a time to talk.
