Freedom – Is It So Easy?

Freedom. How we all wish for it! But, be careful what you wish for. It might just come true! And it comes with a price tag.

I live in suburbia but feel the need to escape it on a fairly regular basis. I decide to go, check my commitments (to clients, family, others), see what options are available and suitable, and go. And I am always amazed at the comments from people about how “lucky” I am to “just do it”. Yes, I agree, the fact that I do not have small children (in my case, none at all) makes it easier. However, I have other constraints.  For example, I do not have a steady income, so if I do go, I have to weigh that up against loss of income (no paid leave for me!).

Come to think of it, the people who comment most about “lucky”, are the ones who actually have no “excuse” (for lack of a better word). They are usually also the ones who are financially in a better position than I am to go, if they so wish.

And “excuse” is probably the right word. Perhaps many who voice their envy do not really want to go. Let’s just stay with the example of a few days’ break (as this may apply to many scenarios) – it involves work! You still have to pack a few items of clothing, travel, sleep in different surrounds, etc. etc. – at the very least. You can take everything and the kitchen sink or you can pack only a toothbrush and clean undies, but you still have to do something. And it may involve risk. The weather might be foul, you might miss your team’s game, you might lose out on a good party “back home”, traffic, the bedding may not be as nice as yours. It is much easier to have an excuse (work, money, kids, partner….).

We are rarely “lucky”. It always is about choices and options. I have the utmost respect for someone who really longs to do something but simply are not able to, but rarely do you hear these people complain or voice their envy. My point is there are always options, if not many then at least some. For example, the kids can go along too, or stay with friends. Or perhaps they are big enough to stay by themselves. Or go for a shorter period. Whatever!

Here’s the clincher – the freedom does not come “free. To “just do it” involves a lot of responsibility. If you do it, it is your choice. No-one or nothing to blame.

So next time you say you wish you could do something, think carefully about what’s stopping you. And if nothing is, think carefully whether you really wish for it. Because it may just come true!

About the author:

Celeste Du Toit is a transformational Life Coach, Speaker, Healer, and workshop facilitator in Durban. She is the founder of YES Paradigm Coaching, a provider of self-awareness and empowerment programs, workshops and retreats.

Her approach is transformational. The premise is that empowerment starts within, so it is essential to identify and change limiting beliefs and inhibiting patterns that are keeping us stuck. She uses neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), powerful questioning, mindfulness and healing techniques in her repertoire, as well as inspiring with her presence, passion and vitality for life.

Connect with Celeste at celeste@yesparadigm.co.za or visit www.yesparadigm.co.zaor https://www.facebook.com/yesparadigm/