By Paula Picard
Traveling through the highway of life can be an interesting adventure. Sometimes the paths are well marked and we seem to zip right through the roads effortlessly. Then there are times when we look around and ask ourselves “where the heck am I and how did I get here?” On these occasions it feels that no matter which way we go, we get further and further away from our destination. We thought we were heading in the right direction and suddenly we are at a dead end or just plain lost!
Being lost, misdirected or confused happens to everyone at one time or another. But, for those of us who work for ourselves- this can be “double trouble”. When you are the “boss” and the boss is lost…. the scenario often resembles an episode of “I Love Lucy”.
Just for a moment, take a step back and a deep breath and look at your situation with new eyes. Realize that this can be a powerful point that is a prelude to discovering a new path and a new adventure. Acknowledging you are lost or have reached a dead end is a powerful affirmation. There is nothing worse than being both lost and in denial! How do you know you are lost, misdirected or at a dead end? Here are some clues to help you decide.
You find no joy in your work, it become dull and everything is“drudgery”
You are not excited about what you are doing.
Your energy is low and you are always tired.
Nothing inspires you.
You feel out of place and without purpose.
Life is just a “routine”.
The same scenarios or situations keep appearing in your life.
The initial realization may cause you to have an emotional release. Allow yourself to feel the frustration at not being where you want to be. Sometimes a good “hissy fit” is just what is needed. Once your emotions have accepted the situation, something magic starts to happen. Things start shaking loose!
You may begin thinking “where do I want to be?” “Which direction should I go?” “How can I get out of this corner that I am stuck in?” When you ask the right questions, the right answers reveal themselves. Pay attention to your environment, you will be given clues and insights as to what direction to go. Sometimes the answer is for you to be still for a little while. Other times you have to back up and start over.
If you are feeling a bit lost or discouraged that you are not at the place you want to be, remember life is a long and winding road (cue Beatles music). It is magical maze full of twist and turns. Adventures wait around each corner if you make the choice to see things that way. Driving up and down the same old tired road- day after day, will wear down your spirit as well as your tires.
About Paula Picard: Paula is a freelance writer as well as a graphic artist who makes “silly things”. Her business is picard creative: FUNctional art with attitude. Paula combines vintage images with funny/sarcastic sayings on recycled tin can lids. She also has a hilarious line of greeting cards. You can see her work at picardcreative.etsy.com and broomstickgreetings.etsy.com. Besides selling her wares online and at art shows- Paula also sells wholesale and is in numerous gifts shops in the US, Canada and Australia.
