Avoiding the 'What ifs' in your life

If you were to project forward ten, twenty or even thirty years from now, what are some of the things you will have achieved in your life? 

Conversely, if you were to reflect back, what might some of your regrets be? Certain areas of your life that, had you had a second chance, you might approach differently? 

Here's a short story for you to get you thinking about the points above. 

At 27 years old, Andrea Proske was a hotel manager. Although she had been physically active in her life, she had never pursued anything of deep meaning or significance. She had never really pushed herself in any way. 

Feeling bored with life, she knew she needed more, so she took the chance to join her first Spartan race. It was this event that inspired her to make change in her life. After this race, she thought to herself, what's next? 

Within a few months, she began rowing and fell in love with it. She realized, "I'm pretty good at this" and began dreaming of taking it further. 

Because of her natural abilities and dedication, she was offered a training spot at a local club. The catch was, she needed to train full time. She told her parents that this was what she wanted but she was afraid to quit her job. 

This is when her father told her to think about the 'What ifs' at the end of her life. What if she never tried, what regrets would she have? 

Andrea decided then and there to devote her life to rowing. 

By 30, she made the Canadian women's Olympic rowing team. At 35 years old, she represented her country and went on to win gold medal in the Tokyo Olympics. 

She is now a recognized speaker who brings a very important message to audiences across Canada. Her message isn't about being the best or winning gold medals. It's about taking the chances needed to pursue the things that matter most in our life.

In looking back on life one day, never have 'What ifs or I wish I would haves' 

What if I actually ran that marathon instead of quitting my training because it was too hard. 

What if I actually switched careers when I had the chance? What would have become of my life? 

What if I actually tried to rebuild the relationship I have with my sibling (or parent or child). How would this have changed my life? 

The what ifs could go on and on, but the point is clear. We always have the chance to avoid 'what ifs' in our life by taking action in the present, when it matters most. 

What are some potential 'what if' areas of your life? What action can you take now to create positive change in your life? How will taking action now make you proud or yourself years from now when you look back at your life? Things to think about for sure. 

If interested in hearing more of Andrea Proske's amazing story, click the link below to hear a recent podcast we recorded. Her story is sure to inspire you to think differently about the 'what ifs' in your life. Thanks for reading.