Tiny Wisdom: On Being Who You Want to Be

“It is never too late to be what you might have been.” -George Eliot

I’ve talked to a lot of people who say that this is a lot easier to believe when you’re young–that it’s near impossible to believe anything is possible when there appears to be a lot less time left.

But do we ever really know how much time we have? When we’re young, we’re not as conscious of our mortality and the unpredictability of life, but that doesn’t mean we’re immune from unexpected hardships. It just means that we don’t yet know to focus on them.

The truth is that we change our mindset at any time. At any moment, we can focus solely on the experience of today, and decide that we deserve the joy and fulfillment of doing precisely what we want to do.

On any day, we can stop fixating on the ticking clock that we can’t possibly control, and make this day count, regardless of what we’ve done on the days that have passed.

We are the only people who can decide that we are not powerless, and we are the only people who can use our power to make today count.

Who do you want to be today?

Photo by Wonderlane

About Lori Deschene

Lori Deschene is the founder of Tiny Buddha. She started the site after struggling with depression, bulimia, c-PTSD, and toxic shame so she could recycle her former pain into something useful and inspire others to do the same. You can find her books, including Tiny Buddha’s Gratitude Journal and Tiny Buddha’s Worry Journal, here and learn more about her eCourse, Recreate Your Life Story, if you’re ready to transform your life and become the person you want to be.

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Mrs. King

14 years ago

Went to law school at 47 on a whim – passed bar exam no. 1 at age 50, bar exam no. 2 at age 53. practicing just like a 20 year old no problem.

Peter G

I enjoyed the simplicity and the power of the post today. Clearly if one focuses on the moment realizing that this moment creates the next one our lives would be a lot more fruitful. And as Mrs. King indicates age is no barrier for ones dreams.

Fresh from the Ashes: The art of self reinvention

[…] sweet serendipity. Lori’s post that accompanied the quote is what got me thinking about who I want to be in depth. Check it out, it’s short and sweet and packed with […]

Denise Fiala

Once again Lori, Love it!
I have switched gears a few times and enjoyed every second of learning and experiencing something new! I love a challenge!

Pamela Picard

Hi Lori, I believe I’m eligible to respond to this post. I wanted to be a journalist since I was 9 years old. I attained some success in corporate communications. This did not fill my deep desire for whatever I thought a journalist does. :-)) Yet, a month past my 65th birthday, I am writing and publishing regularly to a blog that features radio shows of authors and life coaches. I’m also consulting with people in the Central Texas farm to table movement about how my gifts and experience can support their success. I admit it takes some serious positive self regard when I meet my grandmother in the mirror, but my spirit is forever young. And the more I allow my soul full expression, the more love I have for myself, the people in my life and the world. I doubt that I’d try to be a prima ballerina, but I concur with Mde Evans, “it’s never too late to be what we might have been.” xo Pam

Torrito

Lori, i always love the posts on your site, i stumbled upon your site about 6 months ago. Usually the posts are inspiring and uplifting to me this one; however has kind of got me feeling down. Simply the last question; “Who do you want to be today”? i cant answer that question, and thats what is getting me down on myself. I am 27 years old and i feel like im just here, just wandering around looking for my place. My brothers are both married one is expecting twins the other now has a mortage with 2 new cars. i am still in an apartment, just living pay check to pay check, i cant really say “Who i want to be?” Maybe one day soon i will be able to answer that question, not for anyone else but for myself.

Lori Deschene

Reply to Mrs. King

Wow that’s wonderful! How exciting to be starting a new career. Congratulations on your new adventure. =)

Reply to Torrito

Hi Torrito,

I can relate to what you wrote. I actually started working on Tiny Buddha when I was 28, and prior to that I never felt sure what I wanted to do. If you haven’t already seen it, you may find this post helpful: http://dev.tinybuddha.com/blog/do-adjust-do-a-journey-to-meaningful-satisfying-work/

I’m sure you will be able to answer that question, and your answer will likely change over time. I think as long as we keep asking and staying open, we’re in good shape.

Lori

Reply to Pamela Picard

I’m inspired to hear what you’re doing Pamela! “And the more I allow my soul full expression, the more love I have for myself.” <~ Beautiful =)

Reply to Denise Fiala

You and me both Denise! =)

Reply to Peter G

Thanks Peter. I’m glad you liked it!

Debbie_starnes_989

I’m Deborah, I’m 15 yrs young and im from michigan. your or this posting has encouraged me to think about someone i use to be.. if u want to know what that may be add me on facebook and message me saying your quote.