How many of us can say that we are really living our life, and not simply existing. That each day isn’t very much like the one before. Not that there is anything wrong with routine and predictability. What is wrong, is when people hide within the safe confines of their existence, because they are too afraid to do anything different.  Or  that  they are so full of anxiety and fear, that they see danger around every corner.  There are some individuals who are even  too afraid to leave their homes. If this applies to you, then please seek help.  This is a condition that can be be cured.  Making the decision to do this, will give you your life back.

We all have little insecurities and fears about different things. While being cautious is sometimes necessary; being too cautious can be paralyzing. No one is suggesting that you should go out and start taking wild risks. Just trying to encourage you to do something new.  Introducing a little variety into your world can often be the only catalyst needed, to trigger a  new lease of life. It will also increase the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends.

If asked many people would say that commitments and responsibilities are what keeps them from doing something different or from making any significant lifestyle changes. But I also believe  that it is the fear of the unknown and unfamiliar that holds them back. Or, that they feel restrained by the expectations and opinions of other people. Though I do believe what we do affects other people to some degree. I think we owe it to ourselves, to experience as much of this life, as it has to offer.  Do you really want to come to the end of your life and have regrets?

Do not allow other people to discourage you. You might be surprised at their motives. Often it is more about them than it is about you.  It may be that once, they were in the position you are in now.  Were afraid to do something new and chickened out. All this time they have comforted themselves with the thought that they made the right decision. Your decision to go through with something similar, would shake that belief. Though I know there will always be some individuals who will congratulate you for having more courage than they did. The former type of person tends to be more prolific than the latter.

Then there are the people who procrastinate. Who are always putting off ‘today, for tomorrow’. But tomorrow never comes. In other words every time you think  ‘someday’ or  ‘when I have time I will,’ stop and  ask yourself, ‘Why not now?’  Start doing all the things you always planned to do. Choose to start a new life every morning. Plan one thing you will do today to feel alive. Be someone who wants to introduce something new and different every day. Even if it’s changing what you eat – what you normally wear – how you do your hair; or what you do for leisure and fun.

Think about the people you spend your time with. Be around people who have an inspirational, positive, adventurous attitude to life. People who really enjoy living. Individuals who will motivate and encourage you to follow your dreams. Start a bucket list. Don’t wait for the fear of growing old or the spectre of mortality to push you into getting started. Remember, doing what fires your passion doesn’t mean leaving those you love behind. You can take them along on the journey with you. But if you are unhappy with the life you are living and afraid of letting go, maybe the biggest favour you could do for yourself, is just that. Let go! Remember, this is your life. You can either embrace it fully and unreservedly, or you can hide from it. The choice is always yours!