In last weeks post I looked at the reasons why our unconscious often encourages the deferred life plan. This week we look at a few strategies to break free and live the life we want today.

Just Jump & Don’t Look Back

We all feel that urge. We’ve read about Gates, Branson or Jobs and are inspired. We want to say “The hell with it,” burn the boats and leave ourselves with success as our only option. Perhaps you’ve fantasized about telling your boss how horrible her perfume is or sending your friends a postcard from your new European address. While it does take tremendous courage, burning the boats can be an excellent approach to take and will leave you motivated and inspired. You may want to consider the following:

• Having 3-12 months of expenses in a savings account OR
• Insuring you have a good connection with a business owner who will always be willing to take you on for an hourly job (waiter, valet, retail etc) so you have a fall back to pay the bills OR
• You have a friend or family member who, in their support of your venture, agrees that you can live on their couch and out of their fridge if all else fails.

You’ve got where you are because of who you are. That person will only become stronger with failure. The worst case scenario is you try for your dream and fail. It may take you 12-24 months to get back to where you were, probably less.

Test The Waters

Try it out. If you’re considering starting a business around your passion find 1 client and work with them to see how you like it. If you’re dream is around living somewhere else, take an extended vacation (See Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide To The Art Of Long Term Travel for guides to negotiating extended time off work) and see how you like it. Hiring and training an employee is expensive, when faced with the choice between giving you a 3 month vacation or losing you employers will pick the former.

When setting this up you’ll get scared and have your doubts. Your employer will warn of lost seniority or missed opportunities. Be strong and follow through.

Don’t Quit Your Day Job

Do both. There is no rule that says you can’t live your dream part time, for the time being. Spend your weekends at the beach or building a business. This strategy is particularly effective because it shuts everyone up. Since there is no serious risk your unconscious doesn’t bother creating any big issues to stop you and your friends and family will have too must trouble coming up with reasons to hate on your plans.

If this article has inspired you to take action and move towards your dreams I am honoured. If you are looking for help in that journey, it would be a privilege to serve you.

I work with entrepreneurs to provide them with the confidence, focus and strategies needed to successfully build their first business.

Take Action Today,

Dan Johnston.