“How much did they pay you to give up on your dreams?” — Up in the Air

There exist two models in today’s world: the New Model and the Old Model. Historically, you didn't have to choose, the Old Model was chosen for you: go to school, get a job, buy a house, fill it with stuff and then (maybe) try to find some small sliver of your time to do something you enjoy until Monday shows up again. Repeat until (a now very uncertain) retirement.

I’m oversimplifying and generalizing, of course. But, I think the point is made.

The New Model that exists today allows you to do, see, and learn about anything…and meet and interact with almost anyone. The New Model allows you to find or make your own way.

Choose Your Own Adventure

So, the thing about this New Model is it requires you to think critically about some very important things that people largely have not invested the time in up front: what do you really want to do and what makes you happy? (It’s worth mentioning that this isn't a one-time or easy process, but necessary).

I’m not suggesting that quitting your job and becoming a painter is realistic, or even good for you. It’s more about understanding the intersection of your passions, your talents, and the market. And then, at that point, you have found your opportunity.

What are some ways to pursue your opportunity? There are so many and they all sound cliche and tired, but they are all still true: use your network, volunteer/intern, collaborate with others, make time for your own project, and grind and hustle on something you care about (you see where this is going).

The important thing is that you keep going, and never stop. Don’t get weighed down by all the steps required (there will be many), material possessions, or other people’s ideas of what you should be/do.

Nothing is Out of Reach

If you really think about what you want, it is likely much more easily achieved than you think it is. That is the tremendous thing about the New Model: it doesn't rely on others nearly as much as the Old Model, nor does it carry the constrains of the system that the Old Model created.

In the New Model, all you need to do be interested in something (this will make you interesting), have some well crafted goals (they will change), don’t stop working (ever), and keep talking to people (ask them about what they do and tell them about what you’re doing).

Today, we have unparalleled access to people: leaders, athletes, celebrities, authors, chefs, and a lot of other totally amazing people doing awesome stuff. You can see what people have built and worked on and contact them so easily today — it’s crazy! Just think about that for a minute: Twitter (in particular) makes it so easy to learn from people.

Besides the access to people, the New Model provides unlimited access to tools, resources, and information — many of them free.

Here’s the Catch

Time. Everyone wakes up in the morning (some earlier than others) and we all have the same 24 hours to use. No matter who you are — 24 hours, 7 days a week is all we have.

This is almost the only variable that matters in the New Model. How you manage, value, and spend/invest your time is the real equalizer of our reality today.

The Other Side of the Equation

There is one last thing to consider — our perception and attitude. A lot of what can make us happy might be right in front of us if we chose to appreciate it and be happy…constantly chasing something can lead to deep dissatisfaction. Remember to enjoy the process, and that’s we all have control over (and we always have).

So — why would anyone choose the Old Model? Go your own direction, ask yourself some real questions, have a good attitude.

If you do that, you might just be able to have anything you want.