Living for the moment or planning for the future: Which is more important?
We spoke to some of our Wallflowers to find out their thoughts on pursuing their lifelong goals. Here’s what they said
Being an adult ain’t no easy feat. School (for the most part) is like a big ol’ cushion, gently easing us through our childhood years. And then BAM! We find ourselves thrust into the real world with a great big kick to the backside.
There are decisions to make, paths to take and there’s tons of growing up to do, all within what can feel like an insanely short space of time. On top of all that, there’s the whole question of whether we pursue our dreams now, or hold back and wait until we’re more financially stable (and perhaps a little more clued up).
With our YOLO obsessed culture, there’s an underlying pressure to drop everything and go full steam ahead with our lifelong dreams. Ironically however, there’s also a lot of economic uncertainty at the moment. We’re being encouraged to save our pennies, make responsible job choices that our parents would approve of and wait until we’re older to experiment a little more in life.
When it comes to making those big life choices, know that you’re not alone! We’re all in this together. We spoke to some fellow Wallflowers who shared some of their thoughts on living for the moment versus planning for the future.
1. What is your name, age, occupation and where are you from?
I’m Kirsten Rees, I’m 34 and I’m based in Glasgow, Scotland. I’m the owner of Make Me A Success — Haute Copy & Couture Coaching
2. What are your dreams/aspirations? Would you say you’re living them?
I went through the careers book A-Z when I was in school and when I spoke to the career’s advisor about becoming a school teacher she actually talked me out of it. I was very shy and lacked confidence as a kid, so standing up in front of a room or teenagers to teach was a hell of a task for an introvert. I went through a long resumé of jobs over the years before launching my own business as a copywriter and business coach. It’s taught me that I am confident and capable and being introverted isn’t about lacking, it’s about being selective of your environment and the people you work with. I work really hard to attract female entrepreneurs like myself and they love working with me because they can relate to my own experiences. I’m currently writing a business book aimed at women launching a start-up and have a list of aspirations for the years ahead including publishing my book, winning an award, getting on the 40under40 list and doing more speaking engagements.
3. The big question: Do you think it’s more important to live for the moment or plan for the future and why?
I’ve found it’s best to have a balance. I went through a phase in my 20s, trying to live for the moment but it hindered my progression when it came to running a successful business. Nowadays, I have short-term, mid-term, and long-term business goals. However, I do also keep an eye out for anything exciting that might be a great opportunity. I think it’s important to keep a strong schedule but have some flexibility in there so if something does pop up, you can say yes!
1.What is your name, age, occupation and where are you from?
I’m Sophie Dishman, I’m 22, I’m from Northumberland and I’m a student
2. What are your dreams/aspirations? Would you say you’re living them?
My dream is to become a journalist. I’d love to work at Radio 4 or a BBC local station. I’d also like to work on magazines and newspapers (Not all at once of course).
3. The big question: Do you think it’s more important to live for the moment or plan for the future and why?
I think it is more important to live for the moment because, as scary as it sounds, you never know what’s around the corner, but then saying that you should be planning for the future too.
1. What is your name, age, occupation and where are you from?
I’m Marianne Miles, I’m a PR & Social Media Consultant and I’m from London
2. What are your dreams/aspirations? Would you say you’re living them?
I don’t have any dreams or aspirations. I have plans which I’m executing and that is to live a free & unrestricted life.
3. The big question: Do you think it’s more important to live for the moment or plan for the future and why?
Neither is more important. You have to plan and if you are working towards that plan all your ‘moments’ will contribute to your future.
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