Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Swap Your Life?! One Big Leap or Small Changes?

Not living the life of your dreams- yet? You know you're not alone. But here's more evidence: If necessity is the mother of invention, here's proof that many, many other people walking this planet are unsatisfied with their lives and willing to do something about it: http://www.swapyourshop.com/.
Swap Your Shop allows registrants to immerse themselves in other cultures and creative work environments while keeping their current job. You literally swap office spaces, even cities or states, and perform your job with someone else's window on the world. Sounds cool, huh?!
These are short-term swaps which, not unlike mini-vacations, may just inspire and revive your senses and creativity enough to return you back to your "norm" with a completely new outlook on your job, life and relationships. Expecting too much? Perhaps, but take a moment to reflect on an escape, big or small, that you took from your daily grind. A pair of fresh eyes is a valuable tool in making small changes that lead to bigger changes. Is change enticing to you? Or are you truly satisfied with your status quo? Now is a good time to ponder that.
OK, so if your answer is "No, I'm not satisfied with my life," but you're skeptical of taking a leap like SwapYourShop offers, consider some smaller action steps that may leave you a bit closer to the life of your dreams.

1. Clarify the life of your dreams. Make a list of where you'd like to live and work, with whom you'd like to live and work, and, most importantly, the one most important thing you want to do before you leave this world.
2. If your answer to #1 is written in vague generalities, take your lunch break or a whole day to hone in on the details.
3. Choose just one thing you can change reasonably and make a plan. For example, change your work hours or take a community class on something you're passionate about. Your plan includes: a. A realistic timeline b.Tangible action steps c. A person who can support you in making this change
4. Post your "plan" where you will see it every day, for example your mirror or computer monitor, including your timeline ("By June 1, I will register for scuba diving at the YMCA")
5. Tell people close to you about your one small change, and that this is part of living the life of your dreams. You will garner invaluable support and inspire them as well.
6. Applaud yourself when you've made the change! Anyone who can make small changes can make bigger ones over time.

Now get out there and enjoy your life!
Cheers! Share

2 comments:

  1. Great advice, Laurie! I'm going to spend some time today writing my plan -- with specifics. Thanks for the challenge. I'll let you know which star I'll be reaching for in my dreams.
    ~Theresa

    ReplyDelete
  2. Thanks, Theresa! I wish you all the best!

    ReplyDelete

I'd love to hear from you!