When Reality Smacks You in the Face

Have you ever had something happen in your personal or professional life that was a major wake-up call? Not exactly a moment when a light-bulb goes on above your head, but more like having a whole case of bulbs come crashing down on you. The glass shatters, and you hear the tinkling of little shards as each lands on the floor. You shake your head and realize that something fundamental has changed. A defining moment that will shape the course ahead of you.

I had one of those moments yesterday, and today I'm still coming to grips with this new reality. There's a feeling that comes from these changes that is comforting and uncomfortable all at the same time. While the realization itself can be a bit painful, once you've had a chance to step back and face what's happened it's good to know that you have a plan to develop, and that the change is profound enough that you must take action.

While I'd like to go into more detail, I think it's best that I don't at this time. Suffice it to say that when you have these moments, when you feel overwhelmed by the certainty that a change is needed, it's best to take action. In this case it may be some time--perhaps even a long time--before there will be any outward indication of what I plan to do. But I will be planning and considering and putting things into motion so the change can take place. Because yesterday I finally knew for certain that a change was needed. And as painful as that may be initially, it's an important step to take when you need to make big decisions.