During a Learning Annex lecture, Marianne Williamson said “I dislike it when adults say ‘When I grow up.’ They are grown up; it’s time to do what they’re here to do.”
That resonated with me for two reasons: 1) my clients use that phrase all the time, and 2) I’d used that phrase for years.
The phrase “when I grow up” and it’s evil twin “someday, I will” are responsible for preventing us from experiencing our true selves, and giving the world the benefit of our fully-realized potential.
My “when I grow ups” included “I’ll teach,” “I’ll be an entrepreneur,” and “I’ll travel.” One day, I made a decision that it was time to BE the grownup I already was and honestly admit what in my life was working and what was not.
After soul searching and trying many things, I made a plan and I made it happen. I’m now doing the work I love, which includes all three of my “when I grow ups.” This, of course, took time and there have been plenty of bumps in the road. I make less money but am far happier doing the work I was meant to do.
Marianne and I both believe the world needs us to do the work we’re meant to do, and the sooner, the better. Discovery of our purpose and mission is the work we’re expected to do while here on this planet.
Answer these questions:
1. Are you doing the work you know in your gut you were meant to do?
2. If not, do you know what it is?
3. What’s on your “when I grow up” list?
4. What are your excuses for leaving the items on the list, rather than doing them?
If you don’t know the answers to these questions, it’s time to get started. To do so:
– Make a list of the things you love to do.
– Then, add to the list.
– Then, do them.
Yup, that sounds way too simple, but does it really have to be more complicated than that?
We have no right to think small, be less than we’re supposed to be, or take the easy way out by doing what others think is best for us. Are you?
