“And this is Patricia.  She does her own thing.”  This is how I was introduced recently by my friend, Smiley.  Some people might be offended by this characterization, but it made me smile both inside and out.  What this description means to me is that I am seen by some as living according to my own values, living on my terms instead of conforming to the wishes, whims, or values of others.  What this comment means to me is that I have shed a skin I’d worn for a very long time, a skin meant to protect me, to keep me safe.  A skin I’ve outgrown now because I find protection and safety in honoring my own values, in listening to my inner wisdom, and in acting in accord with both.

It’s been a journey, rocky at some points and smooth at others.  As I look back on my life, at the fifty years of life I’ve lived, I feel satisfied and accomplished.  I feel prepared to take on the next fifty, lighter, wiser, happier, freer.  It’s a great feeling, a feeling I want others who feel trapped by beliefs, fears, and self-doubt to feel too.

“Have you heard the news?  I’m moving to France!”  I blurted out to a Roy, a co-worker I knew only from passing in the hallway.  He stopped walking and turned toward me.  A big grin spread across his entire face as he replied, “Oh, that is you!” His reaction made me remember Smiley’s comment.  A smile, one that rivaled Roy’s, came over my face and we both laughed.

That was a few weeks ago.  Since, I’ve left my full time job and have settled in Perpignan, France.  This bold move opened people’s eyes and shook old ideas loose.  It started some thinking, “Hmmm, if Patricia can leave her job and move to France, I wonder what I could do.” Roy’s response and Smiley’s comment made me recognize that my move to France is serving two purposes. It is significant because I am following the path I’m being guided down in order to grow personally, but also  because it is an awakening of sorts where others are witnessing this amazing accomplishment and are realizing that it is possible for them to do their own amazing things in this world too.

In the process of living my life, experiencing my dreams, a wonderful side effect is emerging. As I walk down my path, living out my dreams, not only am I developing, I am helping others down their paths too, helping others see things differently, helping others grow personally too.  It is a wonderful feeling to know you are helping inspire others and changing lives.

I’d love to hear from you all. What are you considering doing that you’d given up on?  What new dream has taken seed in your heart?  Share it with me, via email or in the comments. When  you do this you are taking a first step to make changes and to experience the best life has to offer. Sharing with me is one way to hold yourself accountable, get moving, and to live out your life boldly.

Photo Credit: Thought Catalog