They say a journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step. How many times have you recognized your need to start a “journey” and failed to take even the first step? How is it that we can so easily identify the things we need to do in life, but are so often unable to take even the first step in the right direction? We know how to get to where we want to go, but we refuse to turn in the direction that will get us there.
Life is nothing more than a single journey made up of countless other journeys. Each smaller journey has a varying effect on the overall journey. It is often hard to tell how much the smaller parts will affect the overall. On the other hand, there are some small journeys that will clearly make a difference in the overall. In the same way that a journey can alter a life, the decision that leads us to forego a journey might have an even greater effect on where our overall journey takes us.
How many journeys have you passed up because you were afraid or at least unsure of what would happen? Have you ever noticed that the longer you go between risks, the more afraid you are of them? Risks are the spices of life. Risks also grease the skids of success. If we live our lives in fear, we often do little more than survive. That is not to say we should be reckless, but life is going to happen, and living in fear of the unknown is not living.
If fear of the unknown is a roadblock to some, laziness and a lack of inspiration is a dead end to many others. There are many things we know we should do, but we simply don’t. The reason we don’t do a lot of things is because we don’t want to. We’re not willing to put forth the effort even if we know it’ll pay off in the long run. So many times, taking the first step will inspire us and let us know there’s little to fear, and the payoff is worth the risk.
What journey in your life are you putting off? What can you start today that will help you in the future? What do you have to fear? Most, if not all, of the people in the world that have achieved greatness failed many times. You can’t fail until you try. In life, the race is only with yourself. What journey will you start today?
I have heard it said that the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago; the next best time is today. It’s time to start your next great journey. When will you take the first step? If you’re like most of us, you’re already behind.
There’s nothing wrong with being behind, but there is something wrong with not trying to do your best. That’s true for everyone, especially those of us in the CHEAP SEATS!
Bill James is a co-founder of the James Law Firm with offices in Little Rock, Conway and Fayetteville, Arkansas. His primary area of practice is criminal defense. He can be contacted at Bill@JamesFirm.com