The Experience of Being Alive

I saw too many colleagues who'd lost their love of work. 

Their drawn faces told the story: too young to retire, too old to start something new. Trapped by their responsibilities.

I was in my mid-30 at the time, in London. I thought to myself: I don't want that to happen to me. 

A few years later, pushing 40 and finally with a secure career, I quit and started all over again in Hong Kong. 

It was a risk. But I ended up with another dream job. And a wife. And a family. An adventure.

Then, after another 10 years and pushing 50, I quit to relocate and start afresh once again.

I don't know how my new venture will work out. I can't be sure of success. But, for me at least, that's not the point.

The point is, I never want that drawn face look. There's limited time, and in the time I have left I want to live. Really live.

Joseph Campbell said that most people think they want a meaning for life, but what they really want is an experience of being alive.

I suspect that, whenever we have an experience of being alive we'll do well - whatever our work, status, location or age. 

It's never too late to get a new experience, whether you're in your 40s, 50s or beyond.

If nothing was stopping you what would you rather be doing?