Fight or Flight & Failing at what you love | Episode 48

Do you ever say, “That’s not realistic?” or “I’ll do this because it’s safer,”? It may seem like you’re being practical, but you’re not. You’re living out of fear, and fear will only hold you back. Many people often disguise their worries by claiming their decisions are made out of practicality.

There’s a funny thing about fear, especially when it comes to doing what you really want. We treat that panic of making a choice that’s not “safe” as a life or death situation. It’s not. We are designed to have a fight or flight response to survive, but the days of being chased by wolves are over. Don’t let your mind trick you into thinking there’s any actual danger there. Your life will continue, and sure there’s a chance of failure but wouldn’t you rather fail at something you love rather than something you hate or simply don’t care for?

There will always be a chance of failure because there is no safe choice. The truth is that everything is a risk. Even if you take the safest job in the world, something could happen. If you became an accountant, you could be laid off and struggle to find work. If you become a lawyer, your firm could go bankrupt. Don’t do things because it’s the “right” thing if it’s not in your heart. Opportunities will find a way if you follow your heart and do what you truly love in this world. We only have a short amount of time on this planet, so make it count.

In this episode of Old Souls & Seekers, Ilan discusses Jim Carrey’s commencement speech from 2014 at Maharishi University. He analyzes and elaborates on some of the strongest points from this incredible graduation ceremony that any student would be incredibly lucky to have been a part of.

Download this episode to hear so many words of wisdom that not only apply to new graduates entering the real world but everyone with dreams and desires that aren’t being fulfilled.

“I used to think my existence was only as far as my skin.” -Jim Carrey

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The Cliff Notes:

Most people live in a fight or flight mode.
There’s a difference between real fear and things we make up.
The world is starving for new ideas and new leaders.
Fear will always be a player in your life.
We make our decisions as fear disguised as practicality.
If you want something, ask for it!
There is no such thing as a “safe” choice.
Failure is a part of life, so fail at what you love.
All you have to do is figure out what they need.
The effect you have on others is the most valuable currency you can have.
It’s not the money you make that will make you happy, it’s the connections you make with others.
Your need for acceptance can make you invisible in this world.
If you listen to your ego, there will always be someone better than you.
There are no coincidences, we create everything good and bad.
Let the universe know what you want, then work your ass off for it.
If you miss your opportunity, another one will come later.
The travesties in your life end up being the greatest gifts.
Have faith, not religion or hope, but faith.