Pioneering vs Following
While having an espresso with my son and dialoguing about ‘the big stuff of life’, I shared this powerful line with him from Ralph Waldo Emerson, ‘Do not follow where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”
I asked him, ‘Mikey, do you feel more inclined to follow paths other people create, or to mark out your own trail, free of other people’s (including me) expectations and influences?’ I knew his answer. This boy craves and breathes originality. He’s my inspiration of someone who is not afraid to be the self he really is.(Soren Kierkegaard)
‘Of course, I prefer to create and be the author of my own life,’ he said.
We’re wired to doing what other people expect of us. We learn (from parents, teachers, and other influencers) that we should try to fit in and not stand out.
Yet many of us regret that we did not follow our own muse, passions and visions.
Barry Demp suggests we ask ourselves these questions if we are inclined to create our own path.
Ask yourself:
What inspires me?
What am I passionate about?
Where do I lose all my sense of time?
Where and when am I the happiest?
What are my unique abilities and talents?
Today while sipping my espresso, I am wondering, How will I find the courage to chart my own life journey? Where will I go and what will I do? At age 59 am I willing to step more courageously into unknown future and uncharted path?
I’m still sipping…
PS If you need assistance flip me an email. I am seeking to coach myself and others into an exciting new adventure.
Posted on May 17, 2012, in Live Large. Bookmark the permalink. 4 Comments.
Luciano Del Monte 
Mr. Delmonte,
I’m sure you might still remember me from the many days I use to play ball hockey in front your house. It has been a while since we have been in the same place, but lately I’ve been somewhat following Vince’s progress on Facebook and it has lead me to your blog. It’s funny how we get reconnected nowwa days with the Internet, but even more for me, how I’ve stumbled across your blog. The timing of it all is truly perfect. I’m really inspired by your words and how you use them. I feel like you have my attention. I am looking forward to reading more and to be inspired.
Thank you,
Ryan
So good to hear from you Ryan. I have such fond memories of those early days in ‘the hood’. Keep on pursuing your goals.
The last decade I have been a very successful large format retail ‘building and hardware’ manager. I made good money and was well reputable. It took me many years to get to where I was. A lot of learning and a lot of hard work. Structurally was in the safest place until I retire. Then a few months ago ‘completely out of my character’ I read an online article… then I purchased the product… I really wanted to give the direction from this product a go but found that my job (of the past decade) and my pregnant fiance (5 more weeks) took all of my dedicated time. Sadly I could not commit to what this program suggested.
So I quit my job! (don’t worry i got another one first).
That article and product was written by your son “Vince”. To do as he asked I now manage a large fitness club (one week in).
I am telling you this because I am proud of my decision. At nearly 40 years old I find myself following your sons guidance.
I am also telling you this because you raised this young man with your guidance.
Mr Del Monte, I am inspired with what i have read. I have been inspired by what you have said.
God Bless
Damian Aimers
New Zealand
hey damian
what a beautiful note you wrote. I am so glad to hear that what we are writing is providing some timely information, inspiration and applicable ideas. Our hope is that you will continue to flourish and excel in the calling and career path you are now on. You have probably heard this before but it bears repeating over and over again—“Obstacles are what you see when you take your eyes off the goal.”
In my coaching work, I try to help my ‘clients’ eliminate the ‘interference/s’ from their lives that keep them from excelling and releasing the faith, fire and focus that is within them.
May God bless you in every way–spirit, soul and body today and every day…
Coach Del Monte