We make daily, weekly, and monthly goals to help us move forward, toward something grander. Most of the time this is something we could not complete in a short period, or at all, without proper planning. Other times it is something simple, but motivation is very low.

The simple ones are broken down into smaller parts to prevent a lack of motivation. Furthermore, it allows us to work on our planning skills as well as self-motivation. We do this to avoid the ease of staying in a comfortable situation. Yet, these simple goals add to the illusion of real growth and progress.

For example, planning out a five-step process to get in the gym, wash the car or respond to emails. Ridiculous when someone points it out these processes, right.

This is similar to complex goals, but another factor takes over, fear of the unknown. A common notion for everyone, no matter how far along they are.

Looping

All of this is a cycle that happens all the time in life, think of the current situation as the starting point. The actions we do to get what we want, lead us to the endpoint.

Simple tasks create balance within the loop because what we want is in the not so distant future. Therefore, there is a limited amount of distraction distractions and ways of getting to the finish line.

Complex goals, on the other hand, are much further in the future. Thus, there is a lot more room for distractions and exit routes.

Unknown

A new chapter in life means more challenges, stress, anxiety, and unnecessary problems. An extension of all of the stuff that we just went through, to get to the current sweet spot. Not to mention, new areas for failure as well as less freedom to achieve the goal. Especially for those who are comfortable finding new ways to achieve the current goals.

This type of thinking begins before the current venture ends. Our mind allows fear to creep in, which in turn creates another loop. One that urges us to settle, stay in this comfort sweet spot for as long as possible.

However, no matter how hard we try, all things come to an end. Thus, the only thing we are doing by giving in to the urges is wasting time.

Time

Unfortunately, time waits for no one, and the more we wait or hope for a new distraction to arise, it only adds to the waste. Time is finite in terms of life and certain ventures because it is a gift.

Our time here is uncertain and fleeting, just as new chapters are. It is best to make the most of it and embrace everything that is coming. Instead of settling for less than we deserve, appeasing our fears.

Prepare…

There is no way to prepare for what happens next in life other than accepting that its a mystery. From my experience, when we try to control the process, it ends up going in a completely different direction.

Thus, to be ready for what happens next means that you understand, anything can happen, and things can go sideways. Learn to steer into the skid as the saying goes.

Furthermore, remember, starting was just as unknown and intimidating as moving on is, right now.

The week, month, or year-long venture will come to an end, and the next one will be vastly different. It may require you to learn a new skill, ask for help, collaborate with others, amongst other things, to make the journey bearable and worth wild. No matter the challenges, upsets, and extra stress know that you can overcome it.

That said, I can tell you, this is what it means to be ready for what comes next. It sounds a lot like trusting yourself because that is all it is. Realize, the mind and body are capable of anything, the only requirement is proper direction and motivation.

You can do anything, focus on your goals, and let go of the urge to settle.
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