Living Free
In January, I left the corporate world and hung up a shingle of my own. Without a doubt, this was one of the biggest decisions I’ve ever made.
I no longer have the security of a regular paycheck, paid healthcare, or a daily routine in the traditional sense. Nope, I left that behind and jumped right into the deepest end of a long-time dream of mine.
And while I thought I understood what that would mean, I’m learning something new every day. I’m proud of what I’ve been able to accomplish in a few short months and look forward to what each day brings. But I’ve also had a revelation: I thought riding would seamlessly become part of my day. After all, I’m not driving into an office every day. My hours are no longer 9 to 5. Boy was I wrong. I need to schedule riding time otherwise something else comes first. I need to put it on my calendar just like any other appointment, and honor it just as I would if I were meeting with someone.
And it works. I’ve been out every day this week, something I’ve not been able to do in a long time – because I put time on my calendar and stuck to it.
So while I’m not literally “living free,” I’m definitely experiencing a freedom I’ve never known before. Each day is different. Some days I’m writing, some designing, and some meeting with people – and some days it’s all three! I‘ve reconnected with former colleagues and friends, and working to establish new relationships. I found that writing early in the morning works best, but I prefer to design at night.
I’m embracing each new experience as it comes, including the moments of self-doubt and anxiety that come along with a major life decision. I’m making it a priority to find time to do the things that give me the most satisfaction, both professionally and personally.
Who knew that at 55 I’d be on this creative journey? It’s exciting and scary, and definitely life changing.
I guess I am living free after all.
– Suzanne
I get that. Having free reign
of our time is a dream of most everyone. However once presented with it most
realize that it is something that takes effort and practice as well. The
work/life I lead these days is such an opposite its hard to switch back and forth.
While at work I am housed and fed and my entire routine revolves around the
hands on the clock. Once home, wherever that is, my time is mine to do whatever
I want with again. And without some discipline I find myself essentially
wasting a lot of it just from being disorganized. Darrel’s post last week about
starting every day on purpose really hit home with me. Although I am taking
care of my to-do’s and me, I could be accomplishing a lot more- working on that
part.
Love your revelation about
learning something new everyday, keeping that open mind and embracing that will
keep the dream alive for you. If riding is part of that dream then yes, better
put it on the schedule! For myself my riding is now my physical and mental
therapy, Im not sure what other voids its filling but without them two what
else do we have?
Best wishes for your new
adventure.
Thanks Daniel. I also struggle with organization but I’m trying to be better. One day at a time and celebrate small victories : )
Great to hear that you have made the leap independence. Way to go ! I agree with the need to schedule time for activities you need/want to accomplish. You are an awesome writer and photographer and I have enjoyed your posts very much. Wishing you much success in this next chapter of your life. Have fun.
Thanks so much! It’s been fun so far : )
I’m so excited for you and happy to see you living more of the freedom you deserve. You’re what we call someone who has “gone pro”. My friend Victor and I wrote a post about this once.
Yeah, I know how the day can get away on you…..but as long as riding is one of your daily priorities you’ll always find time to get it in. Pay yourself first….get the ride in early.