The Odyssey of Life
Move Beyond Your Goals, Dreams, and Live it
"Not I, nor anyone else can travel that road for you. You must travel by yourself. It is not far. It is within reach. Perhaps you've been on it since birth, unaware. Maybe it's omnipresent – spanning both water and land." – Walt Whitman
Journey vs Destination: The Great Debate
Personally, I remember my old life as If it was this continuous ‘thing’ that I had to get through. Each day felt either long and heavy, or rapid and I was completely disassociated from the whole experience. Having had enough of those days, I realised that this is really no way to live, it is going through life, not moving with life.
I could never really articulate the unnatural feeling, always feeling as if I were off the pulse, of how I should exist, or be living. Everything took energy and nothing gave anything back. I could bring this back to trauma or honestly the collective mindset I observed and embodied.
Outcome-driven living.
What if I told you the quest towards your dreams is infinitely more enriching than the dream itself? Often, the end isn’t as monumental as society has painted it to be. Seems audacious?
I can recall a pivotal achievement from last year, a step in my professional life that came far quicker than expected. Could it have materialized without the intricate dance of decisions, actions, and experiences leading up to it? I was unsure to be honest.
Having given this some more thought I realised this: the accomplishment of our goals is merely a side effect of our own journey. Think of it like this – shedding pounds becomes an inevitable outcome once you embrace a healthier lifestyle, not just a diet.
The magic isn’t in the endpoint but in the metamorphosis during the voyage: the evolution of your persona, the mastery of new skills, the forging of invaluable relationships, and the soul's profound awakening.
Redefining Goal Setting
Do you think that having goals is a natural component since we have evolved over time? Since our formative years, the mantra of goal-setting has been etched into our minds from thought leaders, entrepreneurs and influencers. Goala - as they say- are the bedrock of success. But beneath those lofty peaks lie the foundational experiences that truly shape the outcome.
What might surprise you is that numerous high-flyers began their journey without a detailed roadmap, yet still touched the stars. Their compass? Perpetual self-growth and skill acquisition. When we strip all the business Jargon, these individuals were self-aware, intuitive and present where they were.
I tend to always tell my clients to ‘smell the roses’ and slow down to not just take in the view but to immerse all their other sensors, it’s only then that you really tune in.
In today's age, there’s no lack of resources preaching the gospel of goal-setting.
Woody Allen’s insightful words “If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans.”
Life has a peculiar way of derailing our best-laid plans, instead asking us to find meaning and passion in the detours.
In line with shifting our obsession from the destination, Michael Neil, astutely points out, “Obsessing about goals is like playing a game of fetch with yourself, using your happiness and self-worth as the bait.”
Embrace this wisdom: Relish the journey, without being chained to a rigid outcome. It’s another way of practicing non-attachement.
Life's True Essence: The Voyage, Not the Victory
Life isn't about amassing possessions or individuals to fill a void, that’s why we go to therapy - when this does not have the desired effect. (That was a joke) But in all seriousness, such pursuits, while fleeting, can lead to inevitable despair. If you're hyper-focused on the endgame, you might miss the symphony of lessons and joys along the way.
“When last did you just f&cking dance in the moment?”
A question I got asked by a therapist - funny enough
Our very biology and subconscious are designed to champion our cause and our illusive purpose. The real essence of life isn’t in some distant future but in the present moment's richness.
Fall In Love with the Process
Consider this: Have you ever embarked on a weight loss journey with a specific number in mind? Often, the process transforms you in ways you hadn't anticipated. The real gems lie not in rushing to the finish line but in absorbing the experiences that shape and solidify your newfound habits.
Stephen Covey, in his book ‘The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People’, talks about the need to continuously renew oneself. As you immerse yourself in the journey, you not only reach your destination but also evolve into your best self.
Character: The Journey's True Gift
“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” - Helen Keller's profound wisdom echoes this sentiment
The crux isn't just about reaching the summit but relishing the climb, for it equips you with a treasure trove of experiences that make the pinnacle even more gratifying.
The world's trailblazers, UNcommon individuals - those who reshape industries, redefine norms, and inspire generations — aren't just goal-oriented. They're process-enthralled. They have an unwavering vision, yes, but they remain fluid in their approach, understanding that life's journey might present detours and unexpected pathways.
So, why not take a moment to savour the ride? To truly soak in the nuances of your expedition. By doing so, you'll not only reach many beautiful vistas along the way but also find that the journey itself becomes a masterclass in self-evolution. It propels you not just towards the realization of your dreams, but to a grander version of yourself, fortified with resilience and wisdom.
Your Call to Action:
Join our community of dream-chasers, visionaries, and relentless optimists. Together, we'll not only celebrate each other's milestones but more importantly, cherish the transformative journey we embark on. Become part of the Uncommon Man Community where the journey and the destination are both revered. Dive in, and let's co-create epic sagas of growth, grit, and glory.
