How many times have you thought about making that big change?
We can go on thinking about if for years, but sometimes it takes that big push to make it happen. That push could simply be a decision that leads to real action.
We do not have to hit rock bottom in order to change, especially if we are comfortable.
The question is, how bad do you want it?
It has been over six years since I left my nonprofit management job and decided to go full time into the yoga and fitness industry. People still always ask me how I made it happen.
Recently, I ran into one of my students in the locker room. She has been taking my classes for a few years at her corporate job. She asked me if I had to work late again that day. I told her yes. Then she asked me if I liked it. At first, the question seemed ridiculous. Of course I do. Why else would I work until 9 pm on a weeknight?
I laughed and told her that I love what I do. She shook her head and told me that maybe she will find her passion one day too.
It really comes down to one thing.
Do what you love.
Even if you can’t do it as a full time job right now, do what you like. Once we know that we are really connected to an activity that inspires us, we plant the seeds of motivation to jump in and make something happen.
Photo: Shinan AhmadThe choice is yours.
There is never really the perfect time.
The economy is not going to be at the ideal state for you to take the leap and dive in, but you need to do it anyway.
Stop waiting.
Things do not necessarily need to happen in this particular order, but for you to be truly successful in chasing your dreams you should do most of them.
Find your passion.
You do not have to pick the most glamorous job in the world. Everyone is different.
Be yourself.
What motivates you? What inspires you? Pick an occupation that will make you want to get out of bed in the morning. You should get excited just thinking about it.
Start talking about it.
This means tell your best friend, right away. Tell a family member.
Talk about your thoughts to people who will honestly give you good feedback on your idea.
The more you talk, the more others will hold you accountable and the more real things will become.
Believe in yourself.
It is great to have the support of family, friends, and that really cool co-worker who also wants to leave her job and start her own business.
The truth is that if you do not believe in yourself, for real, then nothing is going to happen. Confidence can make or break your endeavor.
Get good at it.
Practice. Read about what it is that you want to do. Practice and practice again.
Learn from others.
Lots of people make mistakes. If possible, pick a mentor.
Most people who do something that they love will be happy to help guide you towards your goals.
Have a plan.
It does not have to be perfect, but you should have a general idea of what is going to happen. Do you have enough in finances to cover your rent for a few months?
Be bold but do not be crazy, especially if you reside in southern California.
Work like a maniac.
You will work harder than you ever thought possible. The crazy thing is that you will actually enjoy it.
When you get to that point you know you made the right decision.
Finally.
Own it. Rock it. Be a great success.
Jennifer Tipton is a yogini, traveler, and fitness fanatic. She comes from the midwest and spent two years traveling through Latin America and Europe before moving to southern California to finish an MA in Latin American Studies. She worked for a few years in the nonprofit world before realizing her true passion. Today Jen is a full time yoga and fitness professional and the owner of Get Zen With Jen, a small studio in La Jolla, CA (www.getzenwithjen.com). She loves to travel and is always happy to say that she has visited almost forty countries. She believes that life is a big journey and that we should enjoy and embrace all of it. For more information on how get closer to your dream contact her at [email protected].
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Editor: Elysha Anderson
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