How do you begin something new?
1. Do you see something you want or want to do or get wind of something interesting and just dive right in?
2. Do you choose a point on the horizon and then plunge in, letting things happen around you or fall where they may, not tied too tightly to the destination?
3. Do you choose a point on the horizon, take note of some landmarks along the way to ensure you’re on the right track, then plunge ahead?
4. Do you choose the destination then engage in intensive research until you are confident you know the way to that point, are familiar with side paths and/or possible shortcuts, before you set off?
5. Do you choose the destination, do research regarding every point along the way, become familiar with every possible eventuality, plan for any obstacle you can imagine until there is little mystery left and then step forward according to your detailed itinerary?
6. Do you gather a team who all agree on the destination, discuss, brainstorm, plan for various outcomes, assign roles, gather all your materials and supplies, then set off in consensus?
What thrills you the most? The beginning? The planning? The destination? The journey itself?
I’m poised at a new beginning … a couple new beginnings, in fact.
I tend to be a #2 above. Or maybe a #3. Spontaneity … discovery … dreaming … These are fun, exciting … and often lead to somewhere unplanned – although I mostly get there in the end. (‘There’ being the point on the horizon initially envisioned.)
Is this wise? Smart? Responsible? Those who prefer #4 & 5 and maybe 6 will undoubtedly say me, “Nay!”
But much as their cautions may be wise I’m not sure I could do it their way … too pedantic, too scheduled. Their way removes the mystery and discovery for me. Though I do see the wisdom of more planning than I tend to do …
Interesting how we are all so different. And we all achieve goals and reach destinations of one sort or another. Who is to say which way is best?
So … how should I approach these new beginnings?
Maybe a #7 would be a new way forward:
7. Discern and embrace a goal initiated from Above then spend as much time in quiet and discussion with the Source – and other wise heads – to divine (get it?) the first steps before plunging in.
I’d like to grow adept at this #7 I think. A little looking (in the spirit) before leaping is a good thing. (Believe me, I have jumped without looking enough times to know a safe landing is not guaranteed. And I’m grateful for landing spots unexpectedly appearing beneath me at the last minute. He is kind beyond my deserving.)
2026 is beginning – we are already on the journey, like it or not. None of us know the details of this path but December 31, 2026 beckons us forward.
What is your approach to this new adventure? To those you will encounter along the way?
May your path bring you that which fulfils your life – adventure, surprise, safety, satisfaction, achievement… – along the way and welcome you to the destination.
