Dreams vs. Responsibilities

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Throughout my life, it was easy for me to claim I would accomplish my goals, yet I often found myself procrastinating. I graduated high school with decent marks and pursued a degree in international business and management in the Netherlands. However, I recently recognized that earning my degree was just another form of procrastination, delaying me from pursuing my true aspirations. Instead of realizing my entrepreneurial dreams, I focused on gaining knowledge that would lead to employment—something I had always opposed.

"Most of us spend too much time on what is urgent and not enough time on what is important."

― Stephen R. Covey

Like many, I experienced the pressure of time catching up to me, leaving me feeling directionless. My first job felt like a trap; I was exchanging my time for money, merely getting by. Yet, I acknowledge my privileges: youth, health, supportive family, and friends. While I am grateful for these, I knew that gratitude alone wouldn't fulfill me. I was determined to seek greater freedom in my life.

A Pivotal Decision

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It all came down to a singular moment of clarity when I decided to "transform everything." I understood that my current actions had led me to my situation, and for change to occur, I needed to adapt. This was not a superficial shift; it was a profound realization that altered my mindset and propelled me forward. I accepted my dissatisfaction and recognized that many people believe suffering is simply a part of life. While some struggle is inevitable, we have the power to define its extent.

"If you do not change direction, you may end up where you are heading."

― Siddhārtha Gautama

It became evident that my habits did not align with my aspirations. My financial goals included achieving freedom and exploring the world, yet I was confined to an office job that stifled my travel plans and prevented me from building assets or passive income streams. This realization illuminated the path I needed to take: creating passive income channels and accumulating assets.

Starting the Journey

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Now that I've made the commitment to pursue my dreams, it should be straightforward, right? Unfortunately, that's a misconception. This is where the real challenge begins. Our brains tend to resist change as a protective measure. We are wired for survival, and since our needs are usually met without chasing dreams, our minds hold us back from additional effort.

"Procrastination is the thief of time; collar him."

― Charles Dickens, David Copperfield

Take, for instance, the journey to fitness: it's clear that regular exercise offers numerous health benefits, yet many struggle to maintain a gym routine. Our brain rationalizes that survival doesn't depend on it, leading us to procrastinate. The same applies to healthy eating and, in my case, launching a business.

The Crucial Choice: Embrace Suffering

What I discovered is that suffering is an unavoidable part of life. However, we have the power to choose our struggles. For years, I felt discontent because I wasn't pursuing my dreams. So, why did I wait so long to make a change?

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I was afraid of the challenges that come with starting a business—the time, effort, and stress involved. The initial phase of exercise is often the toughest; everything aches, and progress seems elusive. Eating healthy can feel daunting as your taste buds resist change. This initial discomfort is a common hurdle that many face.

"Do you not see how necessary a world of pains and troubles is to school an intelligence and make it a soul?"

― John Keats, Letters of John Keats

However, remember that you can overcome these challenges. Eventually, exercise becomes enjoyable, healthy foods become appealing, and your business can flourish. The key takeaway is that while many desire success, few comprehend the effort required, and even fewer are willing to take the plunge.