All of our lives, we’re given the “perfect recipe” for success and happiness. It typically involves going to college, earning a degree, getting a job in your field, climbing up the ladder, and living happily ever after. No matter what stage in your life you’re in right now, you may have already realized that this is not the case and doesn’t work for everyone…for many, it’s not even close! But, this is the blueprint for success, so it must be right…wrong!
I’m here to tell you that there is no blueprint for success. If you think there is, chances are you’ve already been disappointed for not staying on track. You may even think you’ve failed in some way because you haven’t followed the blueprint. That’s a feeling you need to erase fast if you want to be happy and successful.
If this whole blueprint idea hasn’t worked out so well for you up to this point, isn’t it time to change it up? Maybe not having a blueprint is the best blueprint of all. Let me explain.
It’s Okay to Take Risks
Taking risks can be scary, especially if you’re the type of person who tends to be more cautious. After all, taking risks is usually not part of the blueprint. Taking a giant leap by changing a career is scary. I should know because I’ve done that before. I followed the “blueprint” until I realized that it wasn’t working for me. So, I did a 180 and eventually got to where I am today. Was it always easy? No! Was it worth it? Absolutely!
That’s why it’s okay to take risks. Repeat after me, it’s okay to take risks.
There may be days when you doubt your decision, but if you follow through, chances are you’ll realize that you made the right decision. There may also be days when you wake up and are excited about your life and what you’re about to do. These are the days that make it all worth it. You’ve started to carve your own path by taking risks and throwing out that outdated blueprint. Now, the rest is up to you and you alone.
Don’t Get Sidetracked
It can be hard to get sidetracked from your real dreams and persuaded to follow the blueprint. An employer may dangle a promotion in front of you when you say you’re going to leave to pursue other avenues. Don’t get sidetracked. Your friends and family may try to convince you to stay where you are because what you’re intending is just too risky. Don’t let them get in your head. The result is not going to be one you’ll like.
What’s going to happen if you get sidetracked? You’re never going to take the leap. You’re always going to find a reason to stay where you are. What will come of that? Nothing. You’ll always wonder what would have happened if you took the plunge. Who wants to live like that, always thinking about what could have been? I don’t know of anyone, do you?
The best advice I can give you if you want to be happy and successful is to stay focused and follow your own path. This is the only way you’re going to achieve the success you want and deserve. Trust me, it’s worth it.
