Today I posted on Facebook:
You guys, the most amazing things happen when you stop being afraid you’re going to fuck up, and just do it already!
And then I got a whole slew of responses and private messages telling me how badly people had needed to hear that today.
On a personal level, this statement could not be more true. I’m not great at math, but I can tell you with utmost certainty that 0% amazing things have happened to me as a result of me not trying. But 100% of the amazing things I’ve gotten to do in my life have come from taking a chance, and at least 50% of those times, I failed miserably in the process at least once.
That’s… a lot of percents, which makes this what? Honors algebra?
My point is, once you get over this whole fear of public failure thing, life gets way easy and a lot more fun.
I want a television show, a fashion line, the freedom to be funny, and the courage to spearhead a movement alongside amazing women. I didn’t and won’t get any of those things without going out and doing them. I didn’t and won’t get any of those things without sucking at some of it along the way.
Today is your day. Start failing. Hard. All over the place. Until one day… you don’t.
Amazing things happen when you start putting things out into the universe.
First: I want to know, right here, what you want to do. What you’ve been afraid to try.
And then: I want you to read everyone else’s comments. Can you help them do their “thing?” Have you been in their shoes and you can offer advice? Did you accidentally end up here after searching the term “fat barefoot chick in bikini?” I get that a lot, here ya go, buddy.
What do you want to do?
I feel like I am in a rut. I am in a job that I am not happy with and is not my dream job. I need a flexible work schedule where I could work from home while helping promote local businesses. I hate being a way from my children as much as I am. It is rough when your kids cry because you don’t have any extra time off from work because they were in the hospital for a week, but they desperately want you to chaperone their field trip. It makes me want to cry. I do have something (possibly) in the works with someone but I just wish it would happen faster, and be guaranteed money. I love writing and I love promoting businesses that I believe in. It is just hard when you are a two income household and there is no way that you could go down to one. I would love to go back to school to get more education on PR and Marketing, especially social media marketing, but there is no time or money. Although, if I didn’t have to worry about bringing in any money I would rather spread the word about stopping child abuse and educating families who are in need on how to make their lives better, but that is a BIG dream…and I have had some wine so hopefully this all makes sense.
1) Get out of the stupid amount of debt that I’ve accumulated. It effects nearly every area of my life and I want it GONE.
2) Figure out a way to earn enough money from home to throw towards my debt. I’m a stay-at-home mom and my earning potential isn’t enough to afford daycare. My husband works crazy hours, so even a swing shift to avoid child care isn’t an option.
3) I am a sales consultant with a direct marketing company that makes all natural, organic body products. I need to get over my fear of failure and put myself out there. But not in a pushy way… I don’t want people running away from me because they’re afraid every interaction is an opportunity to sell them something. But at this point I’m pretty much doing nothing with it.
4) Make people laugh! I’m a funny bitch. I always wanted to be a comedy writer, but I have no clue how I would ever make that happen.
5) And, shit, if we’re shooting for the moon here- My childhood dream was to be a photographer for Life magazine. (Nerd alert- I got a subscription every year for Christmas starting in fourth grade.) I have zero skills (though I think I have the “eye” for it) and I’m creeping towards 40. Now I’d settle for a freelance photographer for the local paper. How does one do that anyway?
Shooting for Life would be divine!!! …or National Geographic!
What organic body products!? I hate slathering myself in tons of chemicals. As for pictures, have you tried the websites for your local paper and tv stations? So they ask for people to submit pics of storms, local happenings, etc?
I work with photographers as part of my job at a magazine and I won’t lie it’s tough out there. But if you love photography you should go for it. You won’t know what you like to shoot and are good at it until you start. It takes time. And when you start seeing a theme in what you are attracted to you can start to head in a specific direction. There are many online resources, free and paid where you can get the technical skills. But bottom line, go out and shoot, whether it’s with your phone or a “real” camera. Start with Instagram, it’s free, has great filters. From there you can move on to more advanced apps and when you are ready for a 35 mm check Craigslist and your local cameral shops for used gear. Picture Correct has a free newsletter with technical tips and a great website. Lynda.com is great for learning photoshop, lightroom, etc. But there are a lot of free options our there for technical info, just start googling. Hope this helps.
Thanks, everyone! I will definitely check those sites out, Yvonne.
Wendy, I sell Lemongrass Spa Products. They are handmade in Colorado. I’ve used the products for years and decided I love them so much, I should start selling them. I’ve met the owner of the company several times. She is genuine and passionate about natural products and supporting women. I really am proud to be associated with the company. If you want to check it out, my website is http://www.ourlemongrassspa.com/erinharris. There are also lots of great options for those with sensitive skin, tree-nut allergies and gluten Intolerance. Please let me know if you have any questions. And thanks so much for asking! :)
Ok… this is gonna get crazy. Currently I am working on my photography. It’s ironic that this was posted today because today I just launched my FB page for my photography, Frankie Phoenix Photography, and I am trying to get the ball really rolling.
I also want to be a YouTuber. I kind of am but I have trouble keeping up with it but I would love that to be one of my things.
Lastly, since I was a child I’ve wanted to act. It’s something I shouldve pursued years ago but I was always too afraid and so many people advised me against it that I dropped the ball. But this year, Im thinking of taking a class and at least doing some community stuff, just to scratch that itch.
Now Im gonna go back and read everyone else’s comments to see if there is something I can do to encourage/help others!!
Thanks for this thread Brittany! It’s awesome!!
Oooh and I want to lose weight and be my ideal size. I have been overweight probably since middle school and just for once I would like to be comfortably at the weight I want to be.
OH me too! Good luck in your endeavors – you can do it!
I want to be an Ironman finisher. I am curvy and have never been an athlete…until I became a triathlete last year at age 33, thank you very much. I want to complete this crazy, long ass race and prove to myself that what I thought was impossible is truly achievable. Watch out 2014 because I am about to kick some sturdy, not built for speed ass.
Man, that is an amazing goal! Good luck!
Truly amazing. I had a friend who was training for one for like a year. It wasn’t until just weeks before the race I really read up on what it was. My internal thought was what are you crazy?! She did it though and what an amazing fete! I wish you the best of luck in your training. Talk about showing your body who’s boss!
I’m starting to think about getting a paying job again after staying home with my kids for 7 years. My references are completely outdated, my teaching certification is expired, and I haven’t networked in years. I don’t even think I want to go back into teaching.
I want a job that I love that allows me to still be a part of my kids’ lives – a photographer’s assistant, a children’s book author or working for a fabulous movement like Curvy Girl. :) I feel like I’m at a crossroads and I’m scared to take the first leap into something different.
Get networking, even on a small scale. Who do you know through your kids, their friends, their teachers? Are you on LinkedIn? Pull together the skills you have and really work on how to sell your transferable skills. It’s going to be tough coming back into the work world, but you have to come in strong and confident that yes, being home with your children was OK.
So I am in the process of preparing to take my certification exam in Project Management. Been prepping for this shit for nearly a year. The test is Monday morning and costed me $550 dollars just to register, along with the blood, sweat and tears that goes along with learning the material.
And I am not ready. For shit. And I don’t know whether I will ever be. And yes, i’ve already put off the exam date once already (and paid those fuckers for that too. Monday is do or die day, baby…) so I really can’t (afford to) do it again.
I will continue to study for the rest of the weekend, but I am deathly afraid of failing. It’s not because of the money necessarily, because i’ve spent that much money (if not more) on purses, the spa and eating out. It’s the fear of everyone talking shit about me because I failed this ridiculously difficult exam and saying that because of this, I am not a good project manager. I want to feel good about my decision to even go through with this. I want to feel good about trying really hard to make it.
I want to feel good about the possibility of failing….and being okay with it.
When I was in Grad School I had to teach classes and mark exams… trust me, you won’t do as bad as you think you will. I promise! So don’t stress and self doubt. Also, most tests aren’t set to trick you, so: keep calm; READ the whole question carefully; go with your first guess; and breath. You’ve got this!
I want to be somebody…sounds simple enough doesn’t it?? I have a wonderful husband, great kids, house, car, an ok job but there’s nothing exciting there. I’m just passing thru life and nobody sees me……
oh Amber! You are somebody! Is there something you like to do and you can expand on it? I have a friend that just started singing with a group and she loves it! I have another friend that is a vegan and loves chickens (not to eat) and is taking a class on raising chickens! Just find something you like and explore it. You will find some purpose and find friends with similar likes and just go from there! :)
You are definitely somebody to your family and those around you. And to you – you have to be somebody to you! What do you want to do that you feel passionate about? Find that thing and go for it -you deserve it!
I want to be a surrogate. I want to help make a family. I’m already in the process of doing this, but have had two failed transfers due to embryo quality and am so heartbroken for the intended parents. Just desperately
want a positive outcome for everyone!
That is a beautiful gift Chelsey! Just the fact that you are willing to do that for someone says so much about who you are and what you stand for. Thank you
I want to be a mom. I realize this is a hard one for others to “help” with but it’s what I want to be most in life. We are currently in the adoption process and hoping and praying for a birthmother to choose us. It’s a hard, long and frustrating process but it’s what will make me a mom.
I also have always wanted to be a writer. I want to write a book and have lots of people read it and love it! I’ve got some ideas but don’t think I’ll have enough stuff to fill a whole book!
Holly, I have watched a couple experience the same situation that you are in. It took them many years, but now they have successfully adopted 2 beautiful girls. I know it is hard to be patient, but it will happen. Just keep praying. :)
Brittany, I’ve been reading a while and you have been molding my mind in a good way since I started! I have been waiting to hear this for a while. I’ve been at a job i really don’t like, working alot with numbers (accting stuff). I remember all throughout school i said whatever I do, i don’t want to do accting stuff! and look at me. i can’t complain though, its a job. i just need to defeat the fear of change! i just getting pushed more and more, but not reaping any rewards or happiness.
My #1 top thing i really want to do —storm chaser! Thunderstorms/tornados are so fascinating to me. I’m a huge dork, but my dream job was to work at the Natl Weather service. But before i do that, i need to go to school and finish my associates then get my bachelors. Again, i started years ago, but quit. Again, need to conquer my fear.
After seeing all of these amazing dreams and desires, I feel kinda silly about mine. But here goes!
I Want to have amazing sex with my husband again! After three kids, it seems as if we have kinda lost it. He absolutely loves me, but is afraid to approach me, because he has been turned down too many times.
I just can’t get out of my own head. I can’t find the desire, and I have tried everything.
My one big problem is that I am on Cymbalta. I have to be.
My husband is sexy! I love to have sex! I am just too messed up to get back on that horse…
It’s not too late. Have you talked to a therapist? That might help. Or find some other ways to spend a little romantic time with hubby and it may just lead to a night of fun! Meanwhile, don’t get too wrapped up about it – that only makes it worse.
Just do it! Sex begets sex and even if it’s not rainbows and sparkles every time, the physical closeness is soooo good for your relationship.
Oh the things I need to work on….
Work: I want to find something else that I can do with my education degree beside teaching in a daycare. I love my kids but the pay is just garbage but I’m afraid that I’ll stink at anything else.
Music/Theatre: Ella and I are doing our 2nd show together right now since she got started doing theater 2 years ago and we’re having a blast. I’d really like to do some shows just for me but I’m afraid to go out for something that Ella can’t do with me. I just feel like my weight would hold me back from getting good roles and like I’m just not as good as I think I am.
Sewing/Cake decorating/Various crafty things: Everyone tells me that I should open an etsy store or something and I never have. I’m always making costumes and clothing for Ella (and Ella’s friend Bobby) but I’ve always told myself that if I had a store no one would buy from me. I feel like I’m good but not that good. I feel like maybe I should take some classes or something so I’d feel more comfortable with my skills but truly I wouldn’t know where to start.
Weight: I’ve managed to keep about 20lbs off since I started really working on losing weight (part of my infertility struggle) but haven’t gotten past that. I’m working on it though. I joined a women’s work out group but at one night a week it really doesn’t do much. I hoping the theatre choreography helps with that. I love some help with that though.
Take a sewing class from http://www.whip-stitch.com !
This is amazing. I’m in awe!
1. I want to have another baby. I’ve always wanted to foster children. I want to adopt a special needs child. I can’t do any until we do some repairs to our house (we rent from my mom) and get a bigger safer car.
2. I want to homeschool my kids using the Oak Meadow curriculum.
3. I want my youngest daughter to meet my dad. It’s been 2.5 years. We haven’t had the gas money to drive to him or money to fix our car issues to make it a safe trip.
4. I want to meet Brittany in real life and have her dress me. I almost feel okay in my skin and much, very much of that is due to Brittany following her passion.
Can’t wait to read everyone’s dreams!!
I’ve wanted to do two things for as long as I can remember — to publish a novel/essay and be on a game show.
Have you written the novel yet? If not, I say start writing! You can do it!
I want to be on the Price is Right! You go and get a novel published! Do it.
I want desperately to stop worrying so much about what other people think of me. I try so hard to be confident and let the little slights go, but instead they wobble around inside of me like some disgusting form of insecurity Jell-O.
I am a very successful teacher, mom, and occasional freelance writer, but instead of feeling secure, I constantly feel judged about my teaching, my parenting, and even my role as the major breadwinner. In my head I can see the situation logically and I know that I’m just being oversensitive. In my heart, though, every single judgment stings, and not in that “maybe there’s a grain of truth to it” sort of way. Instead, I just feel misunderstood and attacked. I wish I had the self-confidence to let it go. I really don’t know how to do that.
The older I get, the less I care about what other people think of me. It’s caused problems, but only with people who want me to be a doormat. The people that are important will love you for who you are. That ones that don’t aren’t worth worrying about. It’s easier than you think, harder than it sounds, and worth every bit of self-reflection, hard work, and heartache.give it a try, and good luck!
Ok last one, I swear. I forgot to share my page with you guys in case you want to check out my process of making one of my “if only’s” come true…
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Frankie-Phoenix-Photography/288233557988178?ref=hl
Brittany mentioned there are Dream Makers reading these posts. Well, my ultimate dream has two parts:
1. I would like to tour the country as myself, The Mother Freakin’ Princess, hosting Princess Parties. Give the women who’d like to dress up a place and a reason to do so. Dressing up in a pretty gown shouldn’t stop the day after Senior Prom. Let’s get our hair and nails done. Let’s put on a prom dress and dance the night away!
2. This part actually brings me to tears when I think about it. I want to put on my dress and tiara to visit children’s hospitals. Kids still love princesses, right?
I work at a library and when. Have beauty queens come in for reading time, the little kids are awestruck. If this is important to you, there will always be a way for you to volunteer! I can’t pay you anything, but we LOVE it when people like you want to volunteer. :)
Sorry… Mistyping… “When we have……”
And I would volunteer! I just need to DO THIS! (Thank you for the encouragement. xo)
Never attended senior prom or any dance that enabled me to dress up like that. When I married I was married in a simple knee length dress in front of a judge downtown. A princess party would finally allow me, at the age of 47, to have the chance to get all dressed up and celebrate!
I work at one of the top ten children’s hospitals in the nation… And yes, kids DO still love princesses! There is always an opportunity and even a need for special guests and volunteers. Children who are I’ll desperately need some cheerfulness and “magic” in their lives!
I quit my day job and spent the last three years pursuing my dream. I’m a painter in Illinois, and believe me, creating luxury wall decorations and managing to sell them in this economy is no joke. I have developed a crusty exoskeleton to protect my ego from the occasional rejections and difficult customers. But I’ve also experienced some wonderful successes and have never been happier or more fulfilled in my entire life. So I just want to keep doing this and continue to grow as a painter, and, you know, possibly make enough money to start buying cute little outfits again.
I want to get my freelance graphic design business up and running. I also want to get back in shape and become a private personal trainer for women that are too intimidated to go to a gym. Oh, and I want to gain that “I don’t give a shit” attitude so I can wear tank tops again in public without being self conscious about my flabby arms… You’re helping me a lot with that last one actually. I hope you realize what an impact you’re making with everything that you do. Just in the few months that I’ve been reading your blog you’ve helped me see how beautiful us bigger girls really are. I’ve had such a distorted view of myself – seeing someone that’s basically the same size and shape as me rocking kick ass outfits, discussing ass waxing (!!) and looking absolutely gorgeous in a bikini has made me start to appreciate my curves and realize that my husband is not crazy… Maybe that little extra jiggle is really sexy. Thanks girl, keep it up! :-)
Sent you a message! Hope to work with you :D
I want to make my Etsy shop successful enough to where I bring in enough to pay at least half the rent per month. If I had a steady income from my shop of only $500 a month, I would seriously be doing cartwheels. I stay home with my children and my husband works 2 jobs to support us. I feel guilty all the time that he works sooooo much. But this is the best situation for our family–minus needing to bring in a little extra cash. I have been making jewelry for 5 years but got serious enough to open my shop online in 2010. It has just kind of floated along. I will get a great sale one month…and then not much for several. I have tried the craft shows and it never balances out…not just for me either. Most people who participated last year with me didn’t do well.
I guess I need marketing help. I want a successful shop and need a mentor.
I want to ask for sponsorship for my running, and I will never be an “elite” runner and I am so scared of having to try to explain why I want sponsorship.
I am too scared to fill out an application. I am too scared to make a video when there are contests. I am too scared to ask my friends to vote for me. I am too afraid that asking for money for my own purposes is selfish. I know that other people run faster than me. I know other people have more popular running blogs and platforms. I know that at any moment I could be injured and have to stop running, and then where would I be? I have no idea how to be organized about accounting for sponsorship. I am not photogenic, I won’t wear shorts (I wear capris) because I am too afraid to expose my cellulite.
But… taking a deep bath…. this is why it is important to me: I want sponsorship because it would let me put more money towards helping other girls with their running and health and fitness goals and entry fees. ( Just lately, I had a friend who has just started running but she could not do a color run with us because she couldn’t afford the race fees. I want to be able to say”No, I am not going to let that stop you! I’m covering you!) I want sponsorship because it would help me run more races, raising more money for my favorite cause (Wounded warrior project) and more awareness for PTSD in our Vets. I want sponsorship to show my daughter that when something is important and you can make a difference, other people will invest in you. Plus– there’s the fact that college boys make their NFL or NBA draft with contracts for MAJOR $$$$ while I still have to pay my own entry fees and I just DARE any of those boys to run as far as I do!!
Sigh….. Wow, it actually feels good just to say it all out loud. That I have this dream, and I have this cause, and this is what I wish for!!!
This is such a smart idea- a generous idea, an altruistic idea. Lovely.
I want my family to be healthy. I want my son to be pain free. I want to know WHY “zero” is not a reasonable pain goal. I want to not be responsible for every-damn-thing for everyone and I feel guilty as hell for feeling that way.
My husband was injured at work a couple of years ago and it has taken a toll on his health, and his mood. We are slowly working through the worker’s comp nightmare. I want worker’s comp to just give him the settlement already!
My youngest son was diagnosed with JRA about three years ago. We drive 2 1/2 hours every two weeks to get his medication infused (in addition to the dozens of pills he takes every day) and you know what? It’s not helping. We’re in the middle of yet another fight with the insurance company to get the next drug approved. So I want the insurance company to quit being such dicks (They’ll eventually approve it, they just like to see if we’ll give up) More than anything I want my son to be free of this. I want him to be able to bounce out of bed each morning like a kid should, instead of hobbling out like an old man.
My mother is in crappy health and I am her primary caregiver. I spend a couple hours everyday making sure she has taken her meds and eaten and is not, you know, running amok. That’s not ideal, but since she refuses to move into a nursing home, and I refuse to let her move in with me, it’s the best solution I’ve come up with. I want her to take responsibility for taking care of herself! (Not gonna happen, but hey, it doesn’t stop me from wanting it!)
My oldest son just finished his freshman year in college. I want to be able to help him pay his tuition so he’s not saddled with astronomical debt when he graduates, instead of spending every spare dime on copays and deductibles and medicine. I feel bad that we can’t help him more.
And JEEZ, I want to apologize for being such a big whiner!
No apologies for whining! You have a right to feel overwhelmed (I have a special needs adult son – I know some of what you’re talking about). If you can, try to take a little time for yourself every day – go for a walk, take a bubble bath – just something to get away a bit. It won’t solve the problems but it might just give you a little burst of added strength. Hang in there!
I have a 9 year old with end stage renal disease. She is on dialysis in our home and is awaiting transplant. I feel your pain! I fight with insurance like it is my job. Don’t feel bad for letting it out, that is a tremendous amount to deal with.
I know it’s tough, I don’t do it nearly enough myself, but take some time to take care of you! I do go to counseling and she keeps telling me I need to take care of me just like if I were on a plane and the air masks dropped. You’re supposed to put yours on first so you can take care of everyone else. I have started very, very small. I am starting to say no when people outside the family need favors. I need more work but for me it is huge!
She also had me write “Me first” on a piece of paper and take a pic with my phone to make it my wall paper. I have to admit, it is starting to sink in a little. I was close to my breaking point but I am climbing every so slowly back of the ledge. Hang in there mama!
I want to write. Perhaps a novel, perhaps a memoir. I truly believe that words on a page can change a life. I want to write those words, I want to affect lives. I mean beyond the three little lives I’m responsible for daily.
I’ve been playing the drums in my basement by myself for 30 years. I’d like to get out of the basement and on a stage with them. Maybe as a drummer for an 80’s Cover Band. I keep saying I’ll get myself out there someday – maybe I need to stop talking and start doing!
Ok, two things I love… 80’s music and drumming. GO FOR IT, Ron! You’ve been a rock star for 30 years so it’s time to let the world know. I know some fantastic musicians and would happily connect you if you had any questions or just needed an extra push.
I’ve been fearlessly posting my weight, weightloss and any random thought online on my blog for me and me alone. I say whatever I want and am as whiny and funny and dorky and full of myself as I want to be. Know what? People come. People read. People write to me and all of the sudden I see a different path in front of me than the one I always thought I was supposed to be on. I’ve lost 106 pounds so far and I think I want to become a nutritionist, a fitness counselor, a…. Something that will help people become the best version that they WANT to be. Not the version the BMI scale says they should be. health is not that number. For me, it’s not about losing weight, it’s about extending my life. Fear of failure has kept me back for so long, and all of the sudden I’m breaking through walls and I see possibilities that were never there before. Now to figure out how to harness it and take a step away from the safety net of the life I’ve been leading for a decade plus.
I want to help my oldest daughter make it in music. To grow her brand so that she can make the money she wants to make in order to start her non-profit clothing company which will help many people. She’s amazing, loving, kind, good and so talented! Then, I want to get back into acting. I miss it horribly! I am good! I am funny! It’s my true passion.
Eta
I worked my ass off for my SAG card. I’d like to put it to use again!
This is awesome….
4 things for me.
1. I want to start the craft show circuit for my crochet. I just need time to be able to build an inventory. Unfortunately, time is not at a premium.
2. I want to open a day care. This is lofty. I don’t have the necessary certifications and no money to go to school to get them and no capital. But I know I could run the best damn daycare.
3. I want to write. Period. I have three books in my head and a full time stressful job that keeps me from being able to put them down in type.
4. I want to feel good about how I look and how I feel again. I want to look great, of course, but I want to be healthy. I’m working on this now but I have a long way to go.
Our state and one of our religious social service organizations both have all kinds of programs to assist day cares. Food programs, investments because there is a real need in our community. Might be worth looking into what kind of funding and assistance programs your state/county/social services could provide.
One of my friends opened a daycare, it was at home, and she was basically funded all of her startup costs, she just had to commit to staying open the full year….
This outpouring is amazing! Women need to be this supportive of each other and less competitive always. And I know, myself included! I am outside Raleigh NC and if any fellow Brit friends want to talk/meet and work our way through life together, let me know. We can and should all help and support each other and I’m offering up mine.
Oh Laura, I so agree. We need more of this type of love in this world! I’m in the Seattle and would love to create a little network for this type of support ongoing.
Yes we definitely do!
Hey Laura!
I was just scrolling down through all of these comments and was thinking the exact same thing!
It’s totally awesome to see so many women sharing their dreams! Why does it seem so rare that we encourage each other?!
Anyway – I saw you are near Raleigh, NC! Me too!!
Maybe we can exchange emails to get to know each other! I mean we both share a mutual love for Brittany so we much have something in common?!
[email protected]
Life happens befor you know it. I got married by 20, had my beautiful daughter by 23, and divorced at 27. Now I am 31 with a wonderful family. A nine year old daughter and a three year old son. One life goal I missed was I always wanted to do nursing…. I’m scared to even take the placement test!!!!
I know what you mean! I spent 20 years working corporate desk jobs that I hated & this year I finally took the leap & applied to nursing school….and I love it! I was really worried about how long I had been out of school, the amount of time I’d have to dedicate to getting a new degree, and even whether or not I could be successful. Still, I knew if I didn’t at least try that would hurt worse than any possible failure.
If I can start over at 40, you can start over at 31 – go for it! :-)
I’m a trial lawyer and I love my job but my real passion is contraception. I am very much against abortions but that doesn’t mean I hate women or want to tell them what to do with their body. It sounds weird but I want to make sure every woman has the resources, information and tools to prevent an unwanted pregnancy and make abortions a thing of the past. I want to pass out the pill like jolly ranchers. I’m getting all juiced up just writing this…..
This may seem kind of trivial, but I’ve always wanted to attend the Academy Awards. And I don’t mean in the grand stand next to the red carpet. I want to dress up, walk the red carpet and be inside the theater for the awards ceremony. I live just outside of L.A., so this isn’t an impossible concept, just one that I’ve never seriously examined. It’s definitely a ‘bucket list’ idea but it still thrills me. My family gets really into the Oscars every year and I love seeing the fashions and trying to watch all of the best picture nominees in preparation. It’s just our thing :)
Love this thread – here’s my aspirations:
* I want my “new” party/event planning business to take off and become at least mildly successful. (I’m in the Toledo area if anyone needs help with a party or event!)
* I want to have a children’s book published. Almost done writing it and I AM going to pursue it! Then on to another book – and another….
* I want to increase my blog readership on my review blog.
* And I need to get in shape and lose weight! I love myself but after the age of 50, the extra weight is really starting to cause issues and I want to be around to meet and enjoy my grandchildren! So, again, if you’re in my area (Toledo, OH) and want to get together and kick each others’ butts into doing what we really wish to do, contact me! I’m ready!
Oh this post is beyond timely. Today was perhaps one of the biggest kicks in the face I have had in years. More bad news than I needed and so few answers. I have been pulling my hair out for months, desperately wanting change and then, whether I like it or not change has me at gunpoint. So, what do I do? Still working on that. What do I want for my life? To feel accomplished, un-afraid, open, brave, happy. What does that look like? Somehow it involves writing, photographing beauty, design, food, inspiring others, being an important part of a community of people that love each other and life each other up. I’m still sorting the details, but after this post, reading the encouragement pouring out to all brave enough to put their dreams out there, and reminding myself to look for truth beauty and goodness even in the face of despair…I think I might be somewhere near the right place.
Thank you everyone
Just have to say Brittany that this was an excellent thread! Love everyone inspiring each other. You all rock!
I want to understand what my super smart geeky 16 year old is talking about when he tells me about the android apps he has in development. I understand the premise and goal, but the actual development is way over my head.
I grew up spending my summers in a motorhome. I would guess that I’ve been to Yellowstone park no less than 75 times, but that was all as a kid. We travelled all over the western half of the US in the motorhome. I haven’t yet convinced my husband of the awesomeness of that kind of travel. I want to buy a motorhome, or even a bigger car and trailer, so that I can haul my kids to the woods or the beach or wherever else I want. Tent camping is out for 3 reasons: I’m done sleeping on air mattresses, I’m scared of pit toilets in the middles of the night, and I want to travel with my super awesome cats. Yes, I’m that person. I have this grand idea to write a book about a couple traveling with their kids and cats in a motorhome. Most of the story is in my head or on scraps of paper. If I can get over my fear of just doing it and finishing, maybe I can make a down payment on my favorite Winnebago.
I think I may want to open a food/catering truck……maybe…… I have so many creative dishes and ideas for more and I would love to have an outlet for them. How does one know what they want to be when the grow up? Really? How?
For me, the simple act of typing these words into this box is a huge step. what the hell. Here it goes.
I am a PC repair technician of 25+ years. 2 months ago, my job of 3 years was outsourced. No warning. Just called before work and told not to come in. I was devastated. For most people, they could just go find work somewhere else. BUT… I have an issue. I was on FMLA for a chronic health condition. I have severe pain one day, perfectly fine another. 90% of the time I can do the work of 3 people, kick ass in any serious PC related emergency, super hero rock star. 10%, without warning, I may not be able to turn my head or put weight on a foot. I would have to come in late some days, but I would stay late and I always delivered 110%. How am I going to find a job to cater to my unique medical condition.. It was hard enough to be taken seriously as a WOMAN who can fix computers in the first place. I’ve had to deal with male ego’s and women who just thought I must just be doing the paperwork and not the actual work..oh the stories..Years ago, when I couldn’t find a service center to hire me, and I was flat out told that they didn’t hire women because it was too distracting for the male technicians..(no lie),after 8 months of being rejected at every turn, I started my own home based business. Going into strange homes fixing computers all over town, never knowing what I was walking into, it started to feel dangerous. I would have panic attacks. My BIGGEST problem was taking money from people. If I felt that the people couldnt afford it, I wouldnt charge much. Even if I took the computer home and spent 3 days without sleep working on it, I was a pushover for each and every person. I was losing money. I just want to do the work, not take the money. I finally landed another job through a consultant agency. That’s how I got my last job. It was a 3 day gig and they were so impressed they hired me. Now that dream job is gone.
I wish I could find a job that would allow me to come and go when I needed to as long as I got everything done. I am awesome at what I do. I’ve done it all of my life. It started as a hobby and then I decided it may as well be a career. I just know that if I apply for a job, and get it, I wont last long if I’m calling in late. Its a very competitive field and who is going to want me if I tell them up front that I have a disability that will strike without warning. They are going to pick the next guy. I have given up. I don’t want to go on disability because I’ve got mad skills and there are plenty of computers to go around, plus I hear its impossible to get on disability anyway. I guess I need advice.
I loved reading all of these responses. Thanks for reading mine. It was a huge step for me to share my story. Good luck to all of you, and may your dreams come true.
First off, I get the chronic thing. My husband and i both have chronic issues that make us cancel plans with friends day of then look perfectly fine the next day. People just don’t get it. Second… What I imagine would help you, would be a partner or small business owner. That way you have to charge otherwise you’ll be taking money from them. Think that would work. Third, maybe finding a turn key office space to rent for you could work. Tell clients you’ll pick up their machine at their door for a fee or they can bring it to your little office space and do remote connections whenever possible. That might solve the security issue. Good luck whatever you choose!
Dear Laura,
WOW! Thank you so much for the great advice. You totally get the chronic illness. Totally. Currently, I do have customer drop off and pick up at my home. But I like your idea SO much more. I could have a totally anonymous owner (which is actually me), but no one needs to know that. That totally works! Im spinning with ideas now! THANK.YOU. !!!!! wow.
Oh I’m so glad I could spark some ideas for you! In life I’m always the problem solver and not so much the emotional consoler like a lot of women. I’m glad my advice helped. :):):) I wish you all the luck in the world!
I am living my dream at the moment by raising my 2 youngest as a stay at home mommy. I was fired while 7 months pregnant by a horrible boss which was the kick in the pants I needed to realize what was important. My hubby and I are lucky enough to be able to support this life change without to terrible a price. What I want more than anything is for my hubby to find his dream job too. He would love to be paid to compose music for anything. He was a touring musician but with the kids and my loss of employment, well it’s not feasible. If he could compose for shows or commercials or … Whatever needs amazing music, then we’d both be doing what we love!
Small ideas, but I think about them all the time:
1. I want to learn how to do people’s makeup. I’d love to be a makeup artist, but don’t know where to learn some great basics and techniques
2. I would LOVE to start teaching figure skating again, but I’m scared that my time away from the sport mixed with the politics will prevent me from getting into a club to teach.
One day, one day…..
You rock. Am going to read more and contemplate what I want!
I’m already doing something I was scared to do – I “went back to school” and am getting my diploma and might then actually take some college courses. So that’s one.
Next: putting myself out there more. It’s about the blog, but it’s not. I know I have the tools and the ideas to do something really cool and fun, but I have been letting my hang-ups about my “plus-sizeness” stop me for fear of ridicule, for fear of trying hard and not being taken seriously, for fear that people will look me up and down and then say with a disgusted expression on their face: “No.”
So in that regard, you are definitely an inspiration to me. because if anyone has been putting herself out there bravely and fiercely, it’s you. here’s to me finally egtting over myself and doing it, already!
Getting out there? I’m doing that very thing right now. Wise words.
Apropos of nothing, I didn’t come here looking for “barefoot bikini chicks”, but I clicked anyway. Beautiful photos!
I have no idea what I want. That seems even scarier.
I’m a graphic designer. My career has been in a rut for the last few years. I’ve been at a corporate job that doesn’t feed me creatively (and sucks the friggin life out of me). I’ve been on interviews and even though my portfolio is stellar and I have 12 years experience, its tough to find something better than what I have. I work because its a job and my husband and I run a two income household. Then one day inspiration hit and I started writing a story. My story. Well, kinda. It’s loosely based on my experience as an art student and falling in love. It started out small, but it’s snowballing into something bigger. It’s all I think about and I write everyday. It makes me feel amazing. I have dreams of incorporating visuals and multi media elements into my story. This could be a massive project that I would love to follow through on to the max. I fanticize about quitting my job and throwing myself into this full throttle, but money scares the shit out of me. We’d probably need funding to get things started up. Not to mention trying to make ends meet on one income is shitty and we’ve been down that road. 90% of me wants to just say fuck it and get my creative on already. The other 10% of me is this money minded, practical pain in my ass who is totally cramping my style.
I would love to start an event planning business, but don’t have the funds to get started :(
I want to start a photography business. Providing pictures at a reasonable price to families. My camera bit the dust and I just haven’t had the funds to buy another. My second love is baking, I would love to be able to combine the 2. This is my dream and has been for a long while (as well as finishing school but as a single mom its difficult). One day I will finish school and run my own business. Until then I will punch the 8-5 click.
It has been awesome reading everyone’s “want” lists & seeing the tremendous support out there. I think there’s a lot of power in just putting things out into the universe & I hope that it gives people the courage to take even just one step towards their hearts’ desires.
As for me, I’m kind of mid-project with my life. Three years ago I decided to live a more intentional life which has included walking away from a failed marriage, abandoning a secure lifestyle, and even recently starting nursing school. I feel good about the progress I’m making (some days more than others) but I do find myself wishing that I had a friend or two to share my ups & downs. That’s something I’ve never really had in my 40 years on the planet and while most of the time I’m able to live comfortably being alone but not lonely, these days I find that Loneliness is a more frequent house guest than I’d like.
I could blame it on moving around a lot growing up so I have “new kid” syndrome (not the NKOTB kind…which is icky in a different way) but it’s not like I’m a hermit. I’ve tried Meet-Ups, I’ve gone out of my way to help & get to know my classmates, I volunteer several places, I put myself out there as much as possible without being desperate & needy about it. Still, no dice. As much as it frustrates me, I can also see that the common denominator in all this is me. Maybe there’s something about me that turns people off…I don’t know. I’m still trying to figure it out.
So I guess my “want” is, I want is either to figure out why I don’t have friends so I can work on becoming more friend-friendly OR finally accept that that’s just not something that will ever be in the cards for me.
Annnnndddd….that sounded really sad. Well crap. lol
Sometimes it just takes one silly thing to get people to open up. I’m a bit socially awkward, so I get it. When I started an office job after 2 years of working alone at home, I was scared shitless. I would try to be friendly but getting used to the somewhat uptight office dynamics and culture was difficult. So I just decided to be silly one day and made a cut out mustache to stick on the window of my office mates cube. I put my face behind it and she thought it was hilarious. We’ve been really great friends ever since. We talk everyday and make a point to hang out and go on outings every month.
It’s important to just be yourself. Maybe it’s not a paper mustache for you. Maybe it’s baking cookies and bringing them to nursing class or helping out a neighbor. People remember the little things and a small gesture can go a long way.
I wish you the best!
I want to write children’s books. I have always wanted to write and I have written a few (don’t know where they are now) but then I don’t know what to do with them. I guess more than writing them I want to put them out there. I want to be published but I have no idea how to go about it and I don’t really have the money to throw at this project right now.
I also want big fake boobs!
I don’t know what I want and that makes it really hard when I’m sad or lonely. I think, lifes pretty good and maybe I don’t need more or better or different. I think the discovery is the hardest.