I love getting emails from readers of my book. Most of the comments I receive are from those sharing how my story has helped them realize that they too, can make their dreams come true. Often, I’m asked for advice on how to overcome certain challenges that stand in the way of their dreams.
Recently, a reader from the other side of the world wrote and expressed this challenge.
Vernon wants to live on a boat and sail around the world but has some things standing in his way. They’re not bad things, but rather they’re the good things in his life. He is experiencing what I found when I wanted to go sailing: The primary obstacles to achieving our grandest dreams and loftiest goals are the good things in our lives.
We have careers, businesses, families, partners, homes, cars, kids, school, dogs, cats, and more. The obstacle can be as simple as, “I’ve always wanted to move to Italy for a year, but who would watch the cat?” Vernon has two large dogs and a great career. There’s not really room on a boat for two Great Danes so what does he do, just leave them? And, what will become of his career and income if he chooses to follow his dream of going sailing? He would have to find another way to pursue his career while onboard.
Few great accomplishments are ever achieved without risk. Usually the bigger the risk, the bigger the reward. In my case, I gave up my career, income, home, security, and identity for the chance at making my dream come true. My passion drove me to risk it all.
Vernon has to decide how big of a risk he’s willing to take on behalf of his passion. How far is he willing to go to achieve his dream? It’s all about trade-offs and the amount of risk you’re willing to take. Only Vernon can decide what is right for him, and only you can decide what is right for you. I’m glad to be helping Vernon and you with your dreams.
Fair winds and following seas,
Larry
P.S. Did you miss my interview on BlogTalkRadio’s “Love Your Path” Show last week? Nancy Brook and I had a great conversation about risk-taking, goal-setting, and making dreams come true! (She asked some really tough questions!!)
RIGHT-Click Here to download the MP3 or listen online below:
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Hi, Larry:
You came to our Rotary Club in Mill Valley, and I really enjoyed your adventure talk and now this letter pointing my problem so clearly. I would love to travel and yes, live in Florence, Italy for at least three months but I would not leave my husband for such a long time. I ache inside just to think if something happen to him while I am gone, i would never forgive myself. He is Italian, but does not like to fly or even Italy any more.
How did you managed to leave your wife? was she happy with your departure, what can you tell a person to leave them behind and be happy with your own self?
I realize that you may not shed any light on this for me but it is nice to share with someone who had the courage to purse his dream.
Best,
Hello Filia,
My suggestion to you would be that since you want to go to Italy for three months, you should do it. To prepare, you can help your husband find his own passion or project that will last him three months. Since he will have something to focus on as well, it won’t be that you are “leaving” him, but rather that you are each going to experience something new. At the end of three months, when you return, you will both compare and contrast your experiences, debrief, and will both have had something important to share.
I wish you the best and thank you for writing!
Larry