Because sometimes, that’s what you’ve got to do.
I’ve been learning a lot lately about living from inspiration, or following your heart, or whatever you want to call it. It comes down to listening to the soft whispers that gently ask that you do something exciting and scary, rather than listening to the loud and ceaseless voice that has reasons and justifications for playing it safe, keeping things predictable and controllable.
Well, last week I had one such little whisper that said “get out of town… now.” I had all kinds of reasons why I shouldn’t… I’d go alone? Where? And isn’t there work and stuff I should be doing instead? The whisper said “yes, alone… anywhere… and the work will wait.” Ok then… it makes me nervous, but I’m listening.
And so on Friday, I got in my car and drove to Taos, New Mexico. Saturday morning, I took a yoga class and then drove to Santa Fe. Sunday afternoon, I drove back to Fort Collins. In between, I talked to strangers of all kinds, locked my keys in my car… twice, broke into my car… twice, did a lot walking, stopping, and looking around. I certainly had my moments of discomfort, moments of “what the hell am I doing here?” and “why am I the only person in the universe all alone?” For the most part though, I was drunk on my freedom, giddy with the enormity of infinite possibilities and madly in love with the little whisper in my heart.
I think everyday, everyone should do one little thing out of the ordinary. One little act that is simultaneously exciting and uncomfortable. That way, when big opportunities or big ideas present themselves, you’ll be a pro at tuning out the fearful voice telling you to play it safe. You’ll be able to recognize that little whisper saying “yes, do it.” And you will listen.