Slaying the beast that is my calendar

These past few weeks I’ve been amazed at how busy I can be just doing the simple things that need to be done.  I’ve been clicking off the daily calendar items one-by-one only to find that the day is gone before I reach the end.  And each time I mark the to-do list, prioritizing each item so that I don’t waste time on the less important tasks, I find that more “high-priority” items sneak their way into the list.

Finding new interests

The curious thing about tackling my many calendar entries is that I often cross paths with people that are involved in things that I feel I “should be doing.”  They are working on projects that directly relate to my interests — or my experiences — and are doing things in their careers that I’ve only dreamed doing.  Some are involved in public relations or media projects that utilize skills that they are just learning, but skills that I’ve had for my entire working-life.  I’m amazed that they are able to integrate the “fun” aspects into full-fledged career options.  I marvel at their ability to step into a new focus without any callous or doubt.  Have I become one of the “old guys” without having realized I reached that moment in my life?  Do I not step into new ventures because I was always taught to “be secure” and to “avoid risk-taking behavior” because it creates “stability” for my family and me?

Using new tools to grow and adapt

I have been pleased with my ability to always be an “early adopter” (that term is becoming quite cliche’ isn’t it?).  I’ve tried MANY new media and social networking tools.  Many of these I use on a daily basis.  I’ve introduced these concepts and resources to my employers — some of which are readily accepted, some of which are brushed aside as folly.  Apparently, my use may not be as productive as I had hoped.  I see others coming into some of the social networks later than I, yet they are receiving greater benefit with exactly the same tools.  I wonder where my direction has failed?

Considering one’s purpose

I’m attempting to re-evaluate my approach and my purpose.  I suppose it is a good idea to revisit one’s personal mission statement, value statements, and goals often.  Perspective is certainly needed here.  I think that I will take some time (is there any left?) to list the benefits of my various activities, my career focus, and my use of the many tools that I currently engage each day.  At this stage in my life it is likely a good idea to decide whether to “maintain” or “refurbish” my lifestyle.

Personal desire and ambition

I’ve always known what I wanted to do with my life.  I’ve always known that I want to make a living while performing, writing, and producing music.  I have the skills, I have the desire, and I have the experience.  I wonder at times if I am “too old” to make it happen now.  However,I have read and heard many things recently that state that one can “never be too old.”  Is it true?  Is it pipe-dream?  I let certain people take away my dreams earlier in life.  I let others influence my decisions.  Did I wait too long to come back to my dreams?  Did I push things aside too long to be able to establish results?  I’m going to continue to enjoy my musical endeavors.  I’m going to continue to write and produce new material.  I’m going to continue to share that with others.  Perhaps I can learn what it takes NOW to turn some of these skills and a lifetime of experience into true opportunity (and I’m not talking “fame & fortune”).  My family deserves it and I desire it.

Knowing and accepting is the first step?

I now realize that I have been “spinning my wheels” for a long time.  I know that I’ve spent too much time “keeping up to keep up.”  It’s time to define the next chapter of my life.  Will you watch as I do so?  Will you be there to give me accountability?  Do you know people that would be good examples or mentors for me as I begin this renewal?  Are you one of those people?