I just finished reading a series of books that were quite enjoyable. The protagonist through the whole series is under threat from many enemies. When he settles one enemy, another one pops up. The solution to his issues is that he goes on the run, leaving his home and abandoning his life and friends. After 15 years or so he comes to some kind of stability. These stories are enjoyable but they demonstrate something we never think about when we state our goals or dreams of the future. What do you have to change or who do you have to become to achieve the ‘new’ you?

Based on what my family is going through right now we wouldn’t do to well if that kind of adventure was thrust upon us. We are in the process of selling our home of 23.5 years and moving to a new location. The angst we feel as we throw things out or donate them is palpable. If we had to run for our lives, abandon our possessions, keep in fighting shape all the time to repel boarders what do you think would happen? We’d probably die.

We are not realistic about our abilities to grow into the characters we want to be in the future. For fun write down a secret dream that you’ve always had about the person you’d love to be. Now write down the changes required of your character, your habits, your beliefs to make this happen. Is it sobering? If it isn’t maybe you should get started on making that dream come true.

(Remember, those actors on the screen who portray those amazing people are just actors. They are just like us; if challenged to fight or die most of them would die).