Embrace the Side Quests: Maximizing Life's Experiences

I recently visited Naples, Florida, for an event I spoke at. But what's got me really excited was the chance to swim with manatees while I was there. If you’re not familiar with manatees, these “sea cows” are 1,400-pound gentle giants that you can swim with. It’s going to be a unique experience, and it got me thinking about the importance of side quests in our lives.

In life, to truly grow, you have to deviate from your main path occasionally. I'm headed to Naples to speak, but taking a little detour to swim with manatees will give me experience points—much like in video games. In games, you have your main quest and side quests. While side quests aren't necessary, they provide valuable experience, PowerPoints, and help your character level up. This makes you better prepared for the main quest.

I approach life the same way. I embrace as many side quests as possible because they provide experiences that make me better at my job and enrich my life. If you’ve ever heard me speak, you know my talks are filled with stories from these side quests. These stories help me find purpose and connect with my audience.

So, today, I want to encourage you to find a side quest in your life. Many people live repetitive lives, doing the same things day in and day out. While discipline is important, staying in a rut robs you of opportunities to grow. New situations offer new lessons. Whether it's taking a different route to work or trying a new restaurant, putting yourself in new situations makes you more aware and helps you learn.

When you’re in a new situation, you’re more aware of your surroundings. You notice every street sign and landmark because it's new. Once you've driven a route many times, you don't even notice the streets anymore. Your mind tunes out the familiar. New experiences force you to pay attention and be fully present.

Your side quest doesn't have to be as adventurous as swimming with manatees. It could be as simple as trying a new hobby or exploring a different part of your city. The goal is to break out of your comfort zone and gain new perspectives. These experiences can remind you of what you love about your routine or introduce you to new passions.

When you embark on a side quest, think about how it can help you. Will it provide new experiences? Can it help in your professional career? Is it something you’re exploring as a potential new hobby? Having a purpose for your side quest ensures you get the most out of it. Don’t just do something new for the sake of it. Understand what you hope to gain and focus on that.

Finally, be present. In today's world, we're often more focused on capturing the moment for social media than actually living it. I’ve gotten worse at taking pictures and better at being present. If you’re always trying to prove to others what you’re doing, you miss out on actually experiencing it. When you’re on a new adventure, take some time to be present. Enjoy the moment fully, and let it become a part of your memory and your heart.

So, find a side quest. Be a hero in your journey by embracing new experiences and being present in every moment. Have a great day, and keep winning.

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