Getting Started: If I Had A Million Dollars …
Back in high school, my guidance counselor asked me what I would do if I had a million dollars. The answer I would give should have identified my passion — what I was supposed to be doing for the rest of my life in order to find professional and personal fulfillment. Um, what? That’s a pretty big question to lay on someone in high school. The truth is, I had trouble answering then and I have trouble answering now. The difference between now and then? Back then I was totally clueless, and just wanted the meeting with my guidance counselor to be over so I could meet up with my friends. All I cared about was car cruising, crushing on boys, and as much shopping as I could manage.
In the present day, I’m still just as clueless. I just have less time in my day to think about it. And so the seconds and minutes tick on, as I continue doing one thing after another. The good news is, there are always plenty of tasks to keep me occupied so I don't have to think about it. The bad news is, there are always plenty of tasks to keep me occupied so I don't have to think about it.
Ah, the Catch 22. As women and mothers, we have loads of them don't we? Why do you suppose that is? But wait, I can't spend too much time thinking about it. I have a million things to do today. My giant to-do list is getting bigger by the minute, and thinking about what I would do if I had a million bucks just seems silly. I mean, good question, but it has a silliness about it.
And then I realized — what's so wrong with silly? I am serious enough about so many things. Can’t I use a little silly? Can’t I be smart, driven, accomplished, organized and silly? Why, yes I can! Bring on the silly, I say. Silly leads to laughter, joy and happiness. And I’d like someone to inject that into my life in large quantities please.
So back to that silly question: what would I do if I had a million dollars? Or, to put it another way: what do I love to do? The answer: spend time outdoors, be active, read, write and feel passion! That’s all I have for now, and that's OK. Seems anticlimactic? Perhaps, but who cares! It's definitely a step in the right direction, and knowing what makes me feel good is important. If I'm trying to create work I love, it has to start with feeling good. So what's the next step? You can be sure I’m going to give it some serious thought!
Author: Amy
We'd love to know what you're passionate about, what would you do for a living if you could? Share your thoughts here!
