Let's NOT go with the flow
I love motivational quotes. Often, when I see one, I mistake them for the source of truth and get a sudden pang to change my life to fit that quote. “Go with the flow” is one such example. Going with the flow can mean many things: taking the path of least resistance, just going on with whatever is happening in your life, or accepting the present for what it is. While, this is a good idea in many situations, it is not so when the flow is taking you to a future that’s not appealing.
Go with the flow can also mean continuing the status quo and is comfortable for many reasons. You have a sense of predictability, fair idea of pros/cons, experience, and a general sense of resisting change that keeps you anchored. What lies ahead is the unknown and is unpredictable and likely to inspire fear. Culture, upbringing, and life restrictions also plays a big role in taking fewer risks and not shaking the boat.
Going away from the flow is hard and demanding but humans can do hard things once they decide. So, really, the most important thing is to develop strong intention and conviction. Ideas and dreams without conviction can’t last long. Figuring out your your next adventure or something you want to try is the first step. But, it might become soon forgotten unless you develop conviction and momentum. It will always remain on the backburner unless you convince yourself that this NEEDS to be done. That THIS is a priority.
Sometimes you want to change the flow but there is no sense of urgency and the safety moat of the status quo becomes a blocker. This situation has its pros/cons. You start with intent and conviction but fear of the unknown stops you from giving yourself a chance. This is when reminders, big bold posters, journals and accountability buddies can remind you of your North Star. Setting time bound goals or setting milestones are helpful to test the waters, build the conviction, and confidence to change up things. I cannot count the number of times journaling has given me clarity because often it separates out my doubts from my aspirations and gives me clarity. Going away from the flow is not easy but the gratifying feeling of trusting yourself and forging your own path may after all be worth it in the end.