The More Things Change…

There’s nothing like a birthday to put things into perspective. Especially when there’s a 3 in front and you’re used to seeing 2s.

I’ve been thinking for a while, now – the last couple of years, at least – that I really want to pursue the dream and give screenwriting the proper attention it needs. But I’ve always held back, wanting the comfort of a familiar job to pay the bills while trying to fit screenwriting into the less busy time.

It hasn’t worked.

Wife, teaching, scripts. There’s only time for two, and I’m not getting a divorce.

So, while I’m still relatively young, I’m quitting my teaching job to give writing the best shot I possibly can.

Is it scary?

You bet. But it is much scarier to look ahead and see oneself as a 50 year old, looking back on life with regrets. What if I had’ve… If only I’d…

Anything in life that is worth something is worth risking something for. In relationships, you’ve got to make yourself vulnerable and risk rejection.

It’s the same with goals and ambitions.

You’ve got to get your screenplay into the hands of people who might say no. Except at the moment I’m not even getting the time to get stuff written, let alone into the hands of people so they can say no.

But things are going to change. No, not going to – that’s putting it in the future. Things are changing. Now. I’d rather lose my comforts, lose my things, than lose my dream.

What about you? Are you making headway with your ambitions, or is the rut of a comfort zone sidetracking you? What needs changing in your life to get you back on track?

When you look back on your life, will you glory in the fact you never had to leave your comfort zone, or will you glory in the sacrifices required to achieve something worthwhile with your life?

I know which one I’ll be doing.