Are you waiting for the perfect time to launch your grand plan? We don’t like to wait in line, but we’re more than content to wait for some other things.
The same mindset applies to starting a business, going back to school, learning to play guitar, writing a book, or having a difficult conversation. In my life, I have struggled with whether to adopt a child, go back to work, or leave unhealthy relationships. We get hung up because we believe that challenging objectives require optimal conditions.
But all that’s really required is the courage to get started. Waiting is often an excuse when we feel fearful or uncertain.
The idea that perfect conditions are necessary is flawed:
- Life is much too short. Eventually, we all run out of time. No one can wait forever. That doesn’t mean to be impulsive and throw all caution to the wind. It does mean, however, that it would benefit you to act soon.
- Life will always get in the way. Waiting for the right moment is like saving the money you have left over at the end of the month. You’ll never have any time to spare, just as you’ll never have any money left over.
- Make time for the important things you want to do or accomplish. The longer you wait, the harder it can be to get started.
- Waiting is passive. Each day is filled with unique moments. It’s not necessary to wait until the perfect storm of opportunity, convenience, and motivation finally occurs. You can create special moments whenever you choose. Plenty of good moments are happening each day, but you’re failing to make the most of them.
- You don’t learn anything while you’re waiting. You’re not enhancing your skills or gaining any experience when you’re inactive. Make the most of right now and you’ll be better prepared for the future.
- Avoid regret. Do you really have the time to spare? Those that wait too long are filled with regret at the end of life. Do you want to look back on your life and think, “If only I would have …”
- Few things are worse than regret, especially when you’re no longer in the position to do anything about it. You might still be able to climb a mountain or learn to play the piano at the age of 80, but it might be easier when you’re 45. You’ll also have more time to enjoy it!
- Taking action results in a more exciting and fulfilled life. Taking action and failing is better than doing nothing at all. Even in failure, you’re learning, taking risks, and living life to the fullest. You’re better prepared for the future and gain a new perspective.
- Make your life interesting and fulfilling by deciding that right now is a good enough time to get started.
- Waiting results in a lack of control. While you’re passively waiting for the perfect situation to occur, you’re giving away control of your life. One common symptom among those with depression is the belief that they lack control over their lives. Why wait? Take action now to create the life you want and take back your control.
Valuing yourself will result in valuing your time. When you value your time, you’ll begin to make the most of it. Every moment is important because you’re important. Avoid waiting any longer for the perfect moment to finally arrive. Get started today and create your own moments.
At the end, I don’t want to day, “I wish I had…..”
Instead, I will say, “I’m glad I did!”
Acbsolutely agree! If you wait for the perfect time to do anything (fill in the blank, it doesn’t matter what it is) it will never happen. Life is about making choices, decisions and acting on them. That’s the adventure 🙂 Visiting from #MSTLP
So so true. I have used the ‘death bed’ analogy for why I became a school principal. I was not encouraged by everyone (and in some ways they were right as it was a very demanding role which cost me some health_ but I was determined not to regret it. There are a few things that remain as regrets but hey, learning to let go and move on.
Denyse #MLSTL
You’re absolutely right Christine – waiting achieves nothing and we just get older and miss out. Some things need to be put off until the time is right (travel if you don’t have long enough holidays can be one of them) but little things done well and done often can bring a lot of joy. You get a sense of achievement when you tackle and accomplish something you’ve been thinking about doing for a while. Life is short – just do it!
Thanks for linking up with us at #MLSTL and I’ve shared this on my SM xx
Leanne | Cresting the Hill
HI Christine, I’ve written about this before and totally agree. In fact, we have to make the moment perfect. It is easy to keep looking for ‘the perfect time’ and life soon passes us by. A great reminder and lovely to have you join us at #MLSTL. Have a beautiful week.
Sue from Sizzling Towards 60 & Beyond
Everything you said is spot on Christine. Rarely is there a perfect circumstance for acting, and rarely can we be certain of a positive outcome. We prepare the best we can and then take the plunge–or we stay exactly where we are without progressing. I love your point that we may have time to do what we dream of later, but we lose time we could have been enjoying whatever it is. I found your blog on #MLSTL and thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you.
It’s always the right time, we just need to shake it in to shape 🙂