I was having a casual conversation with a young friend of mine yesterday and during our chat I was reminded of what I call the “It Won’t Happen to Me” Syndrome. A few seconds to read today just might make even more than just your day.
Over the years I’ve watched this young man grow from a pre-teen to a 22 year old handsome young adult. After graduating from high school he decided to take a four year furlough as far away from education as he could possibly get to engage in an activity that he thought would bring him the joy he so desired.
But after a few short months away he was blindsided by a harsh reality that collided head-on with his jaded, ill-conceived expectations. “If I would’ve really known what I was getting myself into, I would’ve never made the decision I made,” he said with a nervous smile on his face. “The experience was absolutely nothing like I expected it to be. Others were sharing stories of their experiences and trying to persuade me to consider furthering my education after high school, but I didn’t want to hear what they had to say. ‘It won’t happen to me’ was my thought, but boy was I wrong, big time.”
I then expressed to him that experience is commonly referred to as being the best teacher, but listening and learning from someone else’s experience is just plain-ole’ smart. Sometimes the answer is not to go and try it for yourself. He agreed.
Experience over the years has taught me that when reality meets expectations, sometimes there’s a confrontation that may leave you saying, “What the heck was I thinking?” Can I get a witness? LOL… 😉
Yes my friends the “It Won’t Happen to Me” Syndrome has claimed many unsuspecting, intensely motivated victims the world over but don’t let it claim you. Not today. Don’t be afraid to consult with good counsel and listen and learn from their experiences and leverage their knowledge for your good and their pain for your gain. This definitely can help you to prevent a lot of undue heartache while you’re attempting to Make it GREAT!
I’m not sure what the future holds for my young friend, but I’m absolutely sure of who holds the future. A reassessment of his priorities has now been completed and a new goal has been set and appropriate action is underway for him to continue in his efforts to make this ‘good’ life, GREAT!!
Results are to be continued… 🙂
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