Opportunities are like sunrises — if we wait too long, we miss them.
Too often we waste our time waiting for the ideal path to appear. But it never does of course. Because we forget that paths are made by walking, not waiting. Let this be your wake-up call!
If we always sit around until we feel 100 percent ready for the journey, we will likely be sitting around for the rest of our lives. Most of the time we just have to get up and go for it. And no, we shouldn’t feel any more confident before we take the next step. Taking the next step is what gradually builds our confidence. Now is the time!
Yes, it’s finally time to admit that…
1. We often wait too long to explore the things that call to us.
The world isn’t really as it is, but as we see it, and we all see it differently. So if you spend all your free time following trends and doing what everyone else is doing, you’re missing out. Try things out for yourself — try many things. Explore! See what calls to your soul, or what entices you to step forward, and then go for it. Find out everything you can about it. Find other people who love it too. Don’t waste precious time pretending to like things just because other people do — don’t end up with a bunch of mismatched circumstances in your life. Enjoy what you enjoy, listen to your intuition, and you will end up with more circumstances in your life that make you feel alive.
2. We often wait too long to take meaningful action.
Some people wait all day for 5pm, all week for Friday, all year for the holidays, all their lives for happiness. Don’t be one of them! The world does not owe you a living; you owe the world a life. So stop daydreaming and start DOING things that matter. Take responsibility for your life today — take control! You are important and you are needed. It’s too late to sit around and wait for somebody to do something someday. Someday is now; the somebody the world needs is YOU.
3. We often wait too long to trust ourselves with life’s challenges.
Just because you’re struggling doesn’t mean you’re failing. Every great success requires some type of worthy struggle to get there. So give yourself some extra credit along the way. Remind yourself that you’re doing the best you can, and that sometimes it takes an overwhelming series of little breakdowns to have an undeniable breakthrough. When in doubt just take the next small step. Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life. Truly, there’s a time and place for everything and every step is necessary. Just do your best right now, and don’t force what’s not yet supposed to fit into your life. It will happen, when it’s time.
4. We often wait too long to appreciate what we have.
We often take for granted the very aspects of our lives that most deserve our presence and gratitude. How often do you pause to appreciate your health, your family, your home, or other seemingly stable fixtures in your life? Remember, nothing in life is fixed or guaranteed forever. Living in the present is a basic notion, but as with most simple things we often find a way to complicate it. So check yourself — there’s nothing complicated about learning to notice and appreciate your life as it’s happening.
5. We often wait too long to be kind to others.
When you grow older and you look back on your life, you will inevitably forget a lot of the stuff that seemed so important when you were young. You probably won’t remember what your high school GPA was. You will look at your old classmates on Facebook or Instagram (or some other social network) and wonder why you ever had a crush on that person. And you will have the toughest time remembering why you let certain people from your past get the best of you. But you will never forget the people who were genuinely kind — those who helped when you were hurt, and who loved you even when you felt unlovable. Be that person to others as often as possible. (And as you know, what goes around eventually comes around.)
6. We often wait too long to be kind to ourselves, also.
More likely than not, the first person who caught your eye wasn’t “the one.” And the second, third or fourth probably wasn’t either. You know why? It’s because YOU are the one! Seriously, in your own life it’s important to know how spectacular you are. You really have to look in the mirror and be kind, because what we see in the mirror is often what we see in the world. Our disappointment in others often reflects our disappointment in ourselves. Our acceptance of others often reflects our acceptance of ourselves. Our ability to see potential in others often reflects our ability to see potential in ourselves. Our patience with others often reflects our patience with ourselves. You get the idea — you’ve got to show yourself some love and kindness, first and foremost.
7. We often wait too long to embrace the truth.
Too many of us prefer gentle lies to hard truths. But make no mistake, in the end it’s better to be hurt by the truth than comforted by a lie. And lying is a cumulative process, so be careful. What starts as a small, seemingly innocent lie (possibly even with the intention of not hurting anyone) quickly spirals into an mounting false reality. We lie to one another, but even more so we lie to ourselves most often to protect our “oh so fragile” egos. We may even be inclined to lie to ourselves while reading this, not wanting to admit how often we have eluded the truth. (Note: Angel and I discuss this in more detail in the Relationships chapter of “1,000 Little Things Happy, Successful People Do Differently”.)
8. We often wait too long to create and uphold healthy boundaries.
Your mind is your private sanctuary; do not allow the negative beliefs of others to occupy it. Your skin is your barrier; do not allow others to get under it. Take good care of your personal boundaries and what you allow yourself to absorb from others. And if someone in your life is constantly being disrespectful‚ call them on it. If things don’t change, you need to limit the amount of time and influence they have in your life. We need people in our lives who challenge us respectfully, so we can see things from new perspectives, but we don’t need to be constantly torn down by those who don’t respect us. Bottom line: Distancing yourself from people who always give you negative vibes is self-care. Stepping back from situations where you feel unappreciated or disrespected is self-care. Choose to honor your feelings and boundaries, gracefully.
9. We often wait too long to close old chapters in our lives.
You’re going to mingle with a lot of people in your lifetime. You’re going to have first kisses you feel all the way down to your toes and think “Oh my gosh, I love him,” but really… you loved the kiss. You’re going to meet a friend you think you will know forever, but then something will change and you two will go your separate ways. You’re going to explore different parts of your life with different people who aren’t in it for the long haul, and that isn’t a bad thing. Life is a series of stories, and the way our stories intersect is remarkable. Sometimes people are in our lives for the whole story. Sometimes they are in just a short chapter or two. It takes a brave person to know when that chapter is over, and then to turn the page. Be brave. And remember that almost every “goodbye” you receive in life sets you up for a new “hello.”
10. We often wait too long to accept and flow with life.
Don’t stress over things you can’t change. Live simply. Love generously. Speak truthfully. Work diligently. And even if you fall short, keep going — keep growing. In the end, loving your life is about trusting your intuition, taking chances, losing and finding happiness, cherishing the memories, and learning through experience. It’s a long-term journey. You have to stop worrying, wondering, and doubting every step of the way. Laugh at the confusion, live consciously in the moment, and enjoy your life as it unfolds. You might not end up exactly where you intended to go, but I promise you will eventually arrive precisely where you need to be.
Now, it’s your turn…
Yes, it’s your turn to stop waiting and start paying attention to the beauty and practicality of living a more intentional life. But before you go, please leave Angel and me a comment below and let us know what you think of this essay. Your feedback is important to us. 🙂
Which one of the points above resonated the most today?
Finally, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to sign-up for our free newsletter to receive new articles like this in your inbox each week.
Photo by: Adam Lerner
Idella says
I randomly came into my email inbox and read this post, and it has a lot of significance in my heart and mind today. Last night, I visited my ailing grandmother in the hospital. She was recently diagnosed with dementia and was told yesterday she would not be returning home, rather she would be going to a special care home. When I approached her as I was leaving, she grabbed my hand and squeezed it tightly. She cried, and said many sad things about what she is going to miss. Then, she looked at me and said, “Make your day a great one today. Make your time count. This life is not infinite, trust me.” That stuck with me, and upon reading this post of yours, some things are so much more clear for me. Thank you, as always, for such insightful words.
Frances says
When my mother was dying, she squeezed my hand and said many things to me including “don’t work yourself to death like I did.” It has been nearly 10 years and when I find myself becoming overwhelmed, I hear her voice reminding me to slow down and enjoy life.
Nadene says
Thank you for #9. It is hard to close old/long chapters but I am encouraged to do that.
My sister sent me your link….she always knows when I am down and sad (without me saying anything) and this week has been that week, rethinking the past and the what ifs and should I return to those thoughts and places again.
#9 helped a gray deal
J says
Life is so precious. The time to enjoy aspects of life is now. It can be ripped away in an instant; there are no guarantees
Pam Spol says
Absolutely love everything I read from you both.. thank you
You are both amazing.
P farmer says
Wow! I’m 83 and looking back, I wish I had thanked everyone that made me a success. Many many to thank for my success. I am beyond blessed. Many twist and turns but I have to believe they were meant to be.
Joan Voss says
What a brave woman you have in your grandmother. You’re incredibly lucky ? I wish my gram was still alive, but reading your post made me realize how wise the aged can be. Treasure her.
Franky says
M&A, reading your emails, books, and blog has become a weekly habit that has made a difference in my life. Spending my time intentionally has become the best process i have undergone in my transformation, by acknowledging the hurt and the possibilities that comes with it, i have managed to transcend. I find myself in the present, and my senses reawaken. I can feel again, i can taste again, i can hear again, I can see again… Thank you.
Monika Jacques says
I loved it.! Thank you for reminding me of what’s important!
All the commenters with their beautiful touching stories brought tears to my eyes and heart. ?
gaby says
#9 was an eye opener. For the longest time I’d been dwelling on the failed relationship i’ve had with a guy a dated for about four years. It was a relationship that never respected my worth as a person. As hard break ups are, just know that not everyone we lose, is a loss. Somehow there is still sadness when I realize how things turned out, but deep inside I know I am truly better off. And as usual, this is another impressive and needed essay for me to reflect on.
ILindi says
I resonate with you Gaby.
Dinah Webster says
Very uplifting!
June says
Gaby I love that – ” not everyone we lose is a loss”. That is so true and such a good thing to remember because as I look back over my life, all the losses of relationships, although they hurt, were actually blessings because I was not being respected or truly loved. Thank you for the reminder.
Joyce Segers says
Somehow God always brings me back to your articles and emails when I stray off the path. I soooo needed this post, and was feeling, before I read it, so much resistance to some of the things I know I need to do for myself. I need to focus on today and what I am doing “right” (for me) now and right now. Made a decision to go back to school and some say…”At your age?” Age is just a number and I am planning on being here for many years to come. Thanks for the needed reminders here.
Wakenia H. says
Thank you for this post, I have been following you since 2010 and each form of wisdom has been instrumental to my growth and development throughout the years. Reading your post today encourages me to look within my own life to make a personal decision to live purposefully and intentionally to prevent a future of guilt that could lead to heartache. My mission and desire are to move forward toward a future filled with love, peace, and no regrets!
Diania Leneair says
Thank You for sharing these thoughts. I just can’t seam to get going to do the things I need and have to do.
Shana says
One of the big things I’ve really struggled with is forgiving myself. I forgive others but seem to beat myself up for mistakes well past the point of return. But the biggest connection I had to your points is accepting what is. Not what you want it to be but reality and making the most of it. I have to remember it was not that long ago I longed for the life I have now. So I need to be grateful and accept this big messy crazy sometimes very scary life.
B Olus says
Wonderful message. Marc and Angel thank you for this needed and timely reminder on important choices that we need to make in life. It is indeed to stop waiting on these things. Time to make ourselves a top priority and put first things first!
Irene says
Yes let’s stop waiting! This post reminds me that it’s time to love myself… By loving myself and seeing my worth, it becomes easier to walk away from toxic relationships, respect myself, give love to others, prioritise the most important in life amidst all the distractions, accept what is there now, and forgive myself.
Arlene Head says
Thank you. That’s all I have time to say right now. This entire essay spoke to me and made a difference to me.
Sue says
I have waited too long to be kind to myself – having been brought up with the mantra ‘Others first – self last…’
Not sure where to start…….
Thank you for your emails – greatly appreciated
MARILOU DILLEHAY says
Wonderful column today! Thanks for the much needed kick in the pants.
Ugwu Emmanuel E says
Marc and Angel I love you guys so much, I’ve been following you guys for a couple if years and I would say my life has been changed by your posts. God bless you continue…. I hope to be in your life sessions someday soon. Love
Melinda says
Loved that last line! Totally agree with you!
Savitri Merai says
Thank you for this thought-provoking essay.No more living in a bubble or cocoon.Time to break out and simply start enjoying and savouring this life.So much more to experience guilt-free.We can’t change people or the world but we can see things from a different perspective and be more gentle and kinder to ourselves.Thank you for this honest, blunt and awe inspiring piece.
Ginny says
THANK YOU for the great reminders of how to live a peaceful and purposeful life
With appreciation, Ginny
D says
I Love How You and Angel Think and I love How you share your thoughts and feelings. It helps me on my healing journey. Very inspirational.
Thank-You, so much.
Deb
Michael Tinnon says
I loved the statement at the top of this blog that “paths are made by walking, not waiting”. I will work to put this idea into practice in my life.
Deserea says
My first time reading your article, very grateful to have been guided to your site.
Many words of wisdom and truth have been expressed and as an older person I would have loved this guidance in my younger days.
May you both continue to spread your love for many years to come.
I look forward to reading future articles.
Thank you sincerely.
TESSA SIMMONS says
I stumbled across this article and am so happy I did. This is the best thing I’ve read in awhile. It’s a very well written easy read that flows and resonates within me. It’s encouraging, uplifting, and deep but in a light and forgiving sort of way. I can’t wait to read more!
Linda says
Your Mom was correct, don’t worry about Everything…. There are peaks and valleys yes but plenty of time to appreciate everything in life, large and small. Lastly, it goes by quickly therefore choose wisely on what deserves your attention!
Barbara A says
#6
I’m definitely to hard on myself. I look in the mirror and find all the flaws regarding my body.
I’m still blaming myself for mistakes that I made 50yrs ago.
During conversations I talk negatively about “Me”
Thanks M&A
Arun Dongrey says
Dear M & A,
I appreciate all the 10 points given by you and sincerely thank you for them…
Lou says
YOUR WRITINGS ALWAYS MAKE ME THINK AND CRY.
A. S. says
I’ve been reading your emails for years… your advice is always on point and often touches a nerve. Many times I’ve quotes you on social media. For me, and perhaps for others as well, change is probably one of the hardest things to accept no matter how important.
Susie Hall says
Oh my goodness wat an amazing wealth of information to help us navigate life n this world. It gave me a better n clearer understanding of wat a real life journey is about n how to experience it in the best way possible. There is so much in this essay I hardly know where to begin. I’ll join st say that it has opened my eyes n changed my outlook on life experiences. Thank you so much, please continue to write these as they are changing people n the way they look at the world.
Rachel says
Don’t wait to take action. I wait to make changes to keep the important people in my life with me. I guess if they are truly supposed to remain in my story they will no matter where or when I work.
Penny says
You touch the spirit in me, my soul, each time I read your words, seems they directly speak to me. Thank you
Your Wisdom is priceless
Penny
Flora says
Just amazing
All your points resonated with me
Thank you
Khan Anwar says
Wow what an eye opening essay. Than you so much.
Lynn says
Thank you Marc & Angel.
The entire article speaks to me, #6 perhaps the loudest. I was/am fortunate to have had wonderfully wise parents who imparted much of this wisdom. But, life does obscure some of these truths at times, so it is always good to get that proverbial kick in the tush when we can’t do it for ourselves.
La Chaim!!
Denice says
This is exactly what I needed today!! I’ve been so caught up in taking care of others lately that I have neglected myself. Thanks for the reminder!
Archana says
It felt like this is something I needed to hear right now…