My Next 30 Years

Today is my birthday. I have crossed the 30 year mark of life.
It really does get me thinking. I feel like time has blown by in the past few years.

So I’m starting to plan my next 30 years.

Is that even possible?

Actually ummm… no.

Look at it this way. Three years ago we didn’t have Twitter.
I didn’t have a Facebook account. I used RSS, but didn’t get much out of it because I thought it was for nerds. I could never have predicted where I would be today three years ago, let alone 30 years ago. I’m not even going to try and forecast that far into the future.

After all…

My life is more than my online profile.
I existed before I was on Twitter and I will exist when Twitter ceases. Yes I love developing internet shows, helping businesses use online tools to spread their marketing message, making new friends online, and delving into the future of new media. But I’m also an author, producer, speaker, photographer, father, husband, son, friend, and business owner.

As I hit 30 I’m not depressed, but I do feel like I’ve wasted time.
I look back over my life and am shocked at how many opportunities I didn’t take advantage of.

Why?

What was stopping me from moving forward with life decisions that would have moved me toward my goals.

I guess it was too much clutter in life. Not physical clutter around my house – but mind clutter. Not knowing what I truly want from life. Not being prepared to focus on the 20 percent that gives me 80 percent results.

A few years ago I made a conscience decision to re-purpose my life and focus on saying “yes” to opportunities.

Here are some resources I am digging into as I continue this journey:

The Power of Now (a little “new age” feeling but has some useful elements)
Zen Habit Blog
Four Hour Workweek Book and Blog

Here are seven things I’m going to focus on:

1) Connect with more people
2) Look for the ROI (don’t give away myself for free anymore)
3) Look to leave a legacy
4) Take leadership
5) Take control of my future
6) Focus and pick one or two things to succeed at – then move to the next
7) Live in the present

These are just starting points.
As I look into the future I have no clue what is in store for me. I can count on my interests, talents, and values to give me some idea of where my life is headed. But just an idea. The rest is an adventure.

And I’m excited for the adventure – assuming I live another 30 years.

What was your most critical age? What day did you say “wow, my life is moving fast!”

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Joel Mark Witt
Photo By: Kimberly* via Flickr