“They get you on that carousel and they make you dizzy with their passing,” – Sir Alex Ferguson
When Barcelona played Manchester United in 2011 Champions League final, Sir Alex Ferguson had that to say about the Game. It’s like Barcelona just kept passing the ball around until the opponents were dizzy. Life can feel like that at times.
Sometimes you feel that subtle itch, that subtle inkling that there is more? It’s whispering there’s more to life than just clocking in and out, paying bills, and repeating the cycle. Life can feel like a never-ending carousel ride. It spins us in circles and passes us around day after day. This often leaves us drained and even depressed at times.
With that in mind, today we want to talk about the Carousel. We want to discuss how we can get off this never ending spin. Let’s dive into two kinds of carousels we often find ourselves on. The merry go round and the airport buggage carousel. We will explore them, identify how we get there and discuss how we can finally step off.
The Merry go round
First up, the merry-go-round. Remember the thrill of those as a kid? The excitement fades as we age, leaving us dizzy and yearning for solid ground. To disembark from this life carousel, you need to wait for the right moment and leap off. In life, this translates to self-reflection. It’s about pausing, assessing your current situation, and making a conscious decision to change. It’s not a walk in the park, but it’s crucial to break the cycle of monotony.
The Airport Buggage Carousel
Then there’s the airport baggage carousel. Picture yourself as a suitcase, endlessly circling, waiting for someone to claim you. Here, getting off requires assistance. You need someone to lift you off and set you on a new path. This is where networking comes into play. It’s about reaching out, building connections, and discovering opportunities that propel you forward. We all need a hand, and we need people to help us move up.
Breaking free from the Carousel
So, why do we end up on these carousels? As we grow older, the wonder we once felt for the spinning ride fades. Instead of joy, it brings nausea. The repetitive grind of daily life mirrors this, leaving us stuck. Many of us feel trapped, unable to simply step off. We go to the same job for 40 years. We even rack up the long service awards. But at what expense?
Breaking the chains isn’t easy, whether it’s leaving a soul-draining job or a toxic relationship. These situations can take away your self-identity; they can leave you in a state of not knowing who you are. Despite the difficulty, breaking free is always essential.
So, how do we escape these carousels? First, acknowledge that you’re on one. This requires self-awareness and honesty. Are you stuck in a soul-sucking job? In a relationship that no longer serves you? Once you identify the carousel, it’s time to devise an exit strategy.
For the merry-go-round, it means stepping back and reflecting on your life. What needs to change? What steps can you take to make it happen? This involves setting new goals, acquiring new skills, or simply taking a break to recharge.
For the airport baggage carousel, it’s about reaching out for help. This means networking within your industry, seeking mentorship, or leaning on friends and family for support. Sometimes, a little push is all it takes to get off the ride and onto a new path.
Ultimately, getting off the carousel is about taking control of your life. It’s about recognising your power to change your circumstances and create a life filled with joy and fulfillment. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it.
So, are you ready to step off the carousel? Ready to break free from the cycle and start living the life you truly desire? It’s time to take that leap, to hop off the ride, and embrace the unknown. Because beyond fear lies freedom, and beyond the carousel awaits a world brimming with possibilities.
Practical Tips on How to step off the Carousels
Stepping Off the Merry-Go-Round Carousel
- Self-Reflection and Goal Setting:
Tip: Start by carving out quiet time each week to reflect on your life. Ask yourself questions like, “What truly makes me happy?” or “What do I want to achieve in the next five years?”
I remember a time when I felt stuck in a monotonous job. Every morning felt like déjà vu. I began journaling, writing down my thoughts and dreams. This simple act of self-reflection helped me realise that I craved creativity and autonomy. It led me to set a goal of transitioning into a freelance consulting career, which was daunting but ultimately rewarding.
- Embrace Continuous Learning:
Tip: Invest in yourself by learning new skills that align with your passions. Online courses, workshops, or even reading books can open new doors.
During my career transition, I took a class that would help in redefining my career, and goals. It was a game-changer, not only enhancing my skills but also boosting my confidence. It showed me that stepping off the carousel sometimes means equipping yourself with new tools for the journey.
- Create a Vision Board:
Visualise your goals by creating a vision board. Fill it with images and words that inspire you and represent the life you want to lead.
I created a vision board filled with images of travel, creativity, and freedom. It served as a daily reminder of what I was working towards. It kept me motivated to take the necessary steps to get off the merry-go-round.
Stepping Off the Airport Baggage Carousel
- Networking and Building Connections:
Tip: Reach out to people in your desired field. Attend industry events, join online forums, and don’t hesitate to ask for informational interviews.
When I was looking to shift careers, I reached out to a former colleague who had made a similar transition. His insights were invaluable, and he introduced me to others in the field. Networking opened doors and partnerships that I didn’t even know existed.
- Seek Mentorship:
Tip: Find a mentor who can guide you through your transition. Their experience and advice can be instrumental in helping you navigate new paths.
I was fortunate to find a mentor who had walked the path I aspired to take. His guidance helped me avoid common pitfalls and gave me the confidence to pursue my goals. Mentorship can be a powerful catalyst for change.
- Leverage Social Media:
Tip: Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with industry leaders and showcase your skills and aspirations.
I started sharing my journey and insights on LinkedIn. This not only helped me build a network but also attracted opportunities. Social media can be a powerful tool for stepping off the carousel and onto a new path.
Conclusion
Stepping off these carousels requires courage, introspection, and action. Engage in self-reflection. Set clear goals. Leverage the power of networking. By doing so, you can break free from the cycles that hold you back. Remember, every step you take is a step towards a life filled with joy, fulfillment, and endless possibilities. Embrace the journey, and don’t be afraid to leap into the unknown.
Get off the Carousel and start living!
Contact the author Reg for DISC assessment and make the first step towards breaking away from the carousel.
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