By: Mike Willis
Have you ever met a person who seemingly has done it all?
Have you ever fallen into the trap of believing that they are somehow different from you and that’s what makes them able to do all of those exciting things?
I want to encourage you today to dig a little deeper into this to gain a new perspective that may very well change how you go about pursuing (yes pursuing) those life experiences that you have only dared to dream about.
As I have gone through the various seasons of my life, I have grown to love those simple truths that transcend all of life’s madness.
One of those truths came to me as an epiphany when I asked myself, “why not me?”
I don’t feel that I asked this question out of jealousy, but rather a moment of self-reflection to determine my approaches compared to others who I felt were taking advantage of life’s opportunities.
I don’t recall the exact circumstances surrounding this question, but I distinctly remember wondering what made those people, who seemed to get so much out of life, so different.
It was at this moment that it occurred to me that they simply put a plan in place and made it happen.
Now I know this sounds overly simplistic but consider it and how it could apply to you experiencing some of your lifelong dreams.
Since I had this realization, I have enjoyed some incredible life experiences as a result of setting a date (often far out), putting it on the calendar, and planning to make it happen.
Where too many people go wrong is, they wait until an opportunity presents itself to experience something great.
Those are the people who will look back and wish they had done more of the things that mattered to them.
You will always have 20 reasons why it’s inconvenient to go, but there will still be a hundred reasons why you will be thrilled that you made it happen!
Since having this new perspective, I have traveled multiple times to Alaska and the western half of the lower 48.
During those times, I have embarked on some excellent hunting and fishing journeys that have been the best times in my life.
These experiences have only been possible because of the intentionality of my actions to pursue these unforgettable moments.
Remember to appreciate every part of the process of preparing for that perfect trip. During the seasons leading up to your trip, you will be concentrating on the following items:
1) Researching the destination.
2) Researching applicable regulations and licensing requirements.
3) Figuring out the logistics of traveling to and from the destination.
4) Planning how to deal with the game once you successfully get it.
5) Researching, purchasing, and field testing needed gear for the trip.
You may be surprised to see how quickly two years pass as you begin making these plans.
Be prepared for the influx of childlike excitement after you put that first date on the calendar.
I have planned trips as far as three years out. Just having a plan in place is enough to see you through the day-to-day grind and whatever challenging circumstances life sends your way.
It is therapeutic to spend a couple of hours a week researching and planning for something so exciting.
Whether it’s the hunting or fishing trip of a lifetime or that vacation that you and your spouse have always wanted, set a date and make it happen!