T.A.G. Art has been Nominated for a Customer Service Award on the site SupportAwards.org  We appreciate the nominations we received and encourage users to keep nominating so that we make the top 10 to move onto the voting round.  You can Nominate T.A.G. Art Company here: http://www.supportawards.org/Nominate

As children, most of us had the fantasies about grandiose, heroic or romantic careers like doctor, firefighter, something with animals perhaps.  I never met a second grader with a practical plan – honestly, did you ever play “manager” as a kid?

But as we grow, mature, and illusions are spoiled, the plan changes.  The “paying the bills” jobs become the focus.  We’re burdened by what can seem to be  a prison sentence at times.  Some are even relegated to the “lifer” stigma.  I imagine that most people are not where they dreamed they’d be as a child.

But I write this to give encouragement and hopefully help you to see that even where you end up may be your destiny – and a good one at that.

For many work is just a means to an end.  The dreams shift to a different category.  For example, there is honor in being practical, responsible, providing for a family, etc.   For many, what work can provide as a lifestyle is the dream. 

There is honor in the product of your labors as well.  I’m thankful for many who provide essential goods or services - God forbid those goods or services stop.  Can you imagine your life without clean water?  Yet who dreams of working in the treatment plant?

Sometimes, the point is not about you at all, but the impact you have on others.  If you’re in charge, are you promoting a positive work environment?  (and by the way, if you’re in a positive work environment, have you thanked those responsible?)

So keep a focus on a bigger picture than your own cubicle.  There is always something to appreciate, be thankful for, or look forward to every day. Both negativity and positivity have power to affect not only your health and immediate environment but a ripple effect beyond your understanding.  Your legacy is in your choices.

Life really sneaks up on you.  It can wear you down, catch you, turn you into a drone and then end it all.

But is that what you dreamed of as a child? 

How many of us dreamed of being what we are right now?  I dare say most of us would confuse children with what we do for a living, or be relegated to “geekdom” by the average 10 year old. 

So what happened to those dreams?  When did practical matters completely outweigh abandon?  Why do only the rich and lazy get to do whatever they want?  

Seems to be more of a death sentence – or at least house arrest – for most of us.  No wonder so many have a failure to launch from the nest. 

I challenge you to make fun a priority in your life.  Granted, your idea of fun may have changed since 2nd grade, but it doesn’t mean that you can’t have it. 

The immediate response for you may be “I don’t have time” or “how can I make it a priority?” My response to you is “Did you sleep last night?  Did you eat anything within the last 24 hours?  Did you ever have to visit the little (boy’s/girl’s) room?”  Somehow you made time for that which is important – even crucial – in your life. 

So it’s a matter of re-defining your terms.  Non-negotiable, without fail and habitual, you must do something fun every day!

Before you know it, you have things to look forward to – even live for.  Then, who knows?    You may even have a new dream and make it come to fruition.  As a wise man once said, “get busy livin’ or get busy dyin’.”

START NOW!!!