The famous song "Fly like an Eagle" by the Steve Miller band introduces a simple, yet underestimated concept: "time keeps on slippin’ into the future." This life is yours alone and you only have 80 years at best to get whatever you want out of it, so what are you waiting for? Rather than going through your entire life abiding by what is expected of you, what is deemed right or wrong, following the path of everyone else, etc. Why not live life for yourself instead? Does it really matter what other people think of you? Should you allow others’ judgments, opinions, labels affect the decisions you make for your life? You should only have to answer to yourself. You are adult enough to be aware of what your decisions may bring you-good and bad-and you can make the right decision for you-no one else.

As I see it, life is an ocean and where most people are at now is near the beach, where all is safe, reassuring, and familiar; however, picture yourself grabbing the opportunity to swim out into the great abyss of the ocean, falling away from everything that is holding you back, having no reservations, just going out and experiencing what is out there. If there is something you have an interest in, then it is entirely worthwhile for you to pursue that avenue of life. From stripping to residing in a monastery, there are so many paths in life to take. I say, don’t stick with one-try several avenues you are interested in and you will live a full life-one that you desire. Think of how enormous the world is! Perhaps you’ve met 100,000 people already, but recall that this world is made up of over 6 billion! Think of all the people you have yet to meet! The things you have yet to experience! The places you have yet to go! Don’t let anyone or anything hold you back from going after these things. This is your life and you have every right to experience it in full and the way you want. So no matter what the judgments may be, do not hesitate to at least try what you have always wanted to live and understand (at least for a little while).

Let go of reservations, of people who hold you back. Look forward (never back) and feel the uncertainty, the excitement, the power of venturing out on your own and making the most of the life you want. Think of the mysteries the world holds for you to discover! Please don’t be one who looks back on his/her life with "what ifs" or "I wonder if I could haves." Make the changes, take the chances, do it now.

So, if you feel as though you are stuck in a rut then I beseech you to empower yourself and take the initiative to make a change in your life. What have you always wanted to do, but never had the nerve for it? Figure that out and dive head first into it. I guarantee it will be something enriching and worthwhile for you.