A Quick Note to Self
Dear Self,
Please pay attention:
Life is short. Yeah, you do not like to think about that, but it is. Show the people who are important to you the love and respect they deserve, while you still have time. There is nothing sadder than regret, especially when it comes to people we care about. In fact, the one thing that can make life seem unbearably long is living with great regret.
You can change. Change is tough, and no matter what some clever marketers might have to say, change takes longer than you might hope for. However, get it through your head that personal change is possible and it makes more sense to work on changing yourself than attempting to change others. In fact, if you want to see change in others, change yourself. Hopefully, they will gain inspiration from your lead.
Living your dreams and being practical are not irreconcilable. If you have dreams – like being an actor, artist, singer, etc. – you do not have to choose between them and the practical realities of feeding yourself and providing for your family and your future. What it takes to reconcile dreams with practical concerns are plans and parameters which you can live with over the short, medium and long term.
Health, love and sound finances all have their place. If you sacrifice your health to get ahead in your career, eventually everything will unravel. If you are healthy and spend all your time working, you will probably fail to develop a fulfilling intimate and family life. What good does it serve to have money and be in good shape if you cannot share it with anyone? Seek balance in your life and that balance will help improve your health, your love life and your finances.
Know when to listen. There are people who have gone before you who have great wisdom to share. Remember to listen and to apply what you learn. Oh, and remember that from time to time you have some wisdom to share as well. Make sure to take your own advice.
Image courtesy of [antpkr] / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
*Authors note: You might see this column pop up online in a newspaper, under the name Both Sides. I am publishing this column here first at CYInterview.com. For a bunch of years, I have been writing newspaper columns. Since my columns have received a good response on CYInterview, I thought I would share it with you. Hope you enjoy.
You can reach me with your questions and comments at Jay@CYinterview.com Like today’s column? Check back frequently.