Unexpectedly Expected

Often, we make plans for life, we create a schedule and a checklist for the days, weeks, months and years to come. This is great to do and allows us to be proactive. However, I want to emphasize the fact that it’s important for you to not give up if you come across hurdles and obstacles along your path. Life isn’t meant to be a smooth walk in the park. Some days you’ll be slower, some days you’ll fall, some days you’ll get hurt and that’s okay. Even though that is not a part of your “plan,” be okay with that. Embrace challenges and get back up to fight again. What doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger.

When things don’t go as expected, don’t take it as a sign that your goal is not meant to be achieved. Perhaps it is not meant to happen right NOW. They say that if you want to make God laugh, then tell Him your plans. How you think your life is supposed to go may not be the way that is ideal for you. What you think you want is not always what you need. However, this does not mean that there is no point in creating goals or aspirations for yourself. It just means that you need to equip yourself with the mindset that perhaps you’ll face a detour along the way and consequently will have to re-strategize. But remember that it is only for the better.

Understand that you aren’t a victim of “bad luck,” rather some people are blessed with “more good luck.” The classic story of “The Baltimore Broker” is told in many finance classes as it is the epitome of how luck can help you advance forward. You can read the story here: https://adamsfinancialconcepts.com/baltimore-stock-broker/.

The “winners” in this story won not because they worked extremely hard to do so or because the broker was very skilled. They won because they got lucky. However, relying on the luck that you will have along your journey is not enough to get you through. It can only get you so far. This is because success has a lot to do with hard work. For example, you could be “lucky” enough to be presented with an opportunity; however, you MUST be willing and able to capitalize on it and put in the work that is necessary. Take some unexpected risks by saying YES to more things along your journey. They will be great for your self-development and will allow you to “tell a story” of your progress thereby inspiring others following the same path as you. Sometimes “luck” is right in front of you, but tunnel vision can stop you from seeing it. Don’t be so glued to your plan that you miss out on opportunities that are on the sidelines.

All in all, make the most of whatever unexpected is thrown at you along your “expected” route. In the form of a challenge, a “lucky” opportunity or even an opportunity that you may hesitate about at first but that could turn out to be a blessing in disguise. Keep an eye out for those unexpected things in the expected path. And remember life is not about “I’ll be happy when…” Instead, be happy now! Be happy with your journey and not just your destination. Be flexible and adapt to the bumps along the way and ultimately you will thank yourself. 

Embracing the unexpected also means accepting change. Check out this week’s other article called “Growing Through Change; A Timeless Journey ” for more insight into this topic.

By: Sanpreet Dhillon