Eric, the just start thing got me too. I believe it’s really the most important thing. Just do something. It doesn’t matter what. Anything. If you don’t do that, you’ll be exactly where you are now a year from now. If you do something, then something will be different, even if you aren’t where you want to be YET!

As for quieting the mind… yes, I agree too. I think in general we are a bit shielded from that option and often don’t consider it. As I think back now to what helped me, there was definitely a type of meditation technique that i used… that isn’t exactly meditation, but I realize was a form of it. Really powerful stuff, even if you don’t really “get it” at the time.

And lastly, I love your point about there being no finish line. In fact, what I am seeing over and over as I talk to more people about this and compare their stories to my own, one thing we have in common is that we are constantly shifting and changing our plan/destination. It’s actually quite neat to watch. You’ll see it as you see more of my interviews (and hopefully your own someday, wink wink.)

Haha! True. I should have asked him that.

1. “Just Start”: There will never be the perfect time to begin. But once you decide what you think you may want to do, take that first step. And one step will become two, and five, and 105… Prepare to fail. Plan to encounter forks in the road where you make the wrong turn. Know that you’ll hit road blocks and dead ends. But regard these obstacles as events to learn from. Eventually, if you keep at it, you will be exactly where you want to be. What are you waiting for? Just start.

2. “Quiet the Mind”: I never gave much heed to meditation. “What I am supposed to be feeling?” But at one of the many Dental Sleep Medicine courses I took (and really enjoyed), the instructor offered an optional 15 minute breathing/meditation exercise before his lecture. Wow. When it is done correctly (which is not that difficult), you become aware of the importance of being centered and relaxed. And unafraid to open your mind to new ideas and experiences. (PS. Thanks, M.A.,DDS!).

3. “Begin with the End”: Have that finish line clearly in mind. But also be aware that there really is no finish line. Along the way, try to learn from the people who are really good at doing the same thing. The more you are willing to learn, the sooner you will be heading in the right direction. Knowledge and relationships go a long way in opening doors.