What would you want to do that would make you happy if money or time were not a factor?

[V17]

I believe - more so now, especially now; that there is/has to be a purpose why I am on this earth. Before the pain; before the torment, the hurts and fears I've faced and am overcoming, there was a time - no mater how long ago it it was; I smiled. Not that smile you sow on your face to placate or appease but the heartfelt smile. My psych asked me this question the other day, "What would you want to do that would make you happy if money or time where not a factor".
So I said, "Even if it takes 10 years?." She countered, "Even if it took 20." Okay.
"What - like a job?"
"A job, a pastime - anything that you need to work towards to achieve it."
Shit. Okay. Alright.
"I would write a book." Nod. Yeah.
"What's stopping you?", she replied.
Some where in the distance a dog barked. (hehe, sorry - had to)

This has been a pivotal moment for me. Without going too much into detail other than to say I fired back many 'buts' at her, the question remained the same. This question and the dialogue that followed has been one of many beginnings to the journey I am now willing, not so much happy to - more determined - to undertake. No, it's not going to be easy - how can it be? - but, jeez; I love to write.

So, may I ask you who is reading this - if not to post a reply, then to ask yourself.. what would you want to do that would make you happy if money or time were not a factor?

I wish you the BEST of days.
V.

[V17]

P.S. I have only started writing again since I joined this - words fail me to describe how instrumental it has been to my recovery - forum. T h a n k y o u.

[Zeal]

Hi Judahlion,

Thank you for your insightful post. That was a great question your psych asked, as it brought to the fore a great passion of yours. I enjoy writing when it is something that I am encouraged to do for a particular purpose. What I mean to say is that I don't write of my own accord, in my free time. I did a few creative writing subjects as university electives, and I certainly enjoyed them. I find writing fictitious stories challenging. At uni, I ended up writing about my personal life, with names changed. It was obvious it was about me though, as I am quite transparent on paper. Even in person I am, but I'm not extroverted or outspoken. I just don't mind people seeing who I am.

Is there a particular story or subject matter you have in mind, if you were to write a novel? What is your favourite book genre, by the way?

Thanks again for your post!

Best wishes,

Zeal

[Guest_322]

Beautiful post, Judahlion,

I'm in a bit of a rush so will respond properly later today.

If time and money were no object, I would travel. Yes, I would travel, travel, travel...

Dottie x

[Zeal]

Hi again Judahlion,

I forgot to answer the question posed at the end of your post! I want to be a Counsellor more than anything. I finish my undergraduate psychology degree in 1.5 weeks, and I've applied to study postgraduate counselling at my uni for next year. If I get accepted, then that's one step closer 🙂

A few years ago the idea of writing a novel or long story (whether it was published or not) appealed to me, so perhaps one day I will write something independently.

Best wishes,

Zeal

[radiojammer]

Similarly to you Dottie I would travel more. Unfortunately i have noone to do it with at this stage of my life, so when i do go away i have to go on organised tours and book single hotel rooms, which costs a lot more than if you share. I would love to have a decent job because the job I'm in is low -paying, insecure and rewardless and i feel like the lowest of the low having to do it where i get no thanks from people, but criticised instead. If i could do anything Id love to have my own shop (just a dream).

[V17]

Well met Zeal - you are very welcome.
I want to be able to give back to so many of you beautiful souls that have/are and will continue help me and others like me - indirectly or directly; if this post helps in any way; I'm happy.

I will read anything, Zeal - thanks for asking 🙂 I haven't found a particular genre (yet?) that I solely resonate to. Yet, I've found that the written word if reflected on, edited and based on conviction, can be life changing. I'm not just talking about myself here; words are powerful tools - I love that; if in the right hands with the right mind they can uplift and edify. Inspiring. Motivating - just beautiful really.

Oh my gosh! I.5 weeks to go - how exciting for you! Keep going, keep believing because if counselling is your purpose right now; your drive and your conviction, I have no doubt in my heart that it will come to fruition. I find it amazing that less than a week ago I had a suicide ideation; my purpose then was to survive - still is. You can do anything. I can do anything. I'm discovering with the help of my psych and my faith, that it is my own perception that helps or hinders my journey. There may very well come a day - when the time is right, you'll know; you may just find yourself writing. Positive outcomes - gotta love them huh.

V.

[Guest_322]

Hi V.,

This was a very uplifting thread to read first thing this morning 😊

I agree with you that there is immense support on this online forum. The people here have been/are incredible.

You've been on quite the journey, haven't you? From not wanting to go on to having hopes and dreams for the future. A real 180.

As has been said before, the pen is mightier than the sword.

If you feel your calling/purpose is to write then go for it! The words will come to you in good time, I'm sure.

You'll find your voice in your writing. Self expression whether it's in the written word, music, a painting, equation (for you mathematicians out there), etc is beautiful.

Dottie x

[Guest_322]

Hi Radiojammer,

Yeah, I hear your financial woes. You seem like you're in an underappreciated job. It must be hard.

I can empathise as a uni student on a shoestring budget. Let's just say the only travelling I'll be doing during the summer break is of the armchair variety ha, ha.

True, travelling alone would typically be more expensive than splitting expenses with another person or group. Either way, travel is kind of expensive in general ha, ha.

Owning a shop sounds like a wonderful dream. Maybe there's some entrepreneurial spirit in you.

Dottie x

P.S. All the the best with you last 1.5 weeks, Zeal! And here's hoping for good news about your Masters course 😉

[blondguy]

Hey V17

What a refreshing and pro-active post 🙂

Its such a breath of fresh air to read a post from someone that has embraced the benefits of seeing their counsellor and you have a crackerjack one too!

As you know these forums are rock solid secure and good on you for helping the people that choose not to post (which is fine of course) and just read the posts so they can benefit from your wisdom & experience

Nice1 V17

my kind thoughts

Paul