So, while trying to figure out what I want to be when I grow up, I came across something I’d scribbled on the back of a piece of paper. It was “Be -> do -> have”, and it could just be the thing to help you reinvent yourself.
I don’t know where I got it from, and google tells me it may be from “Conversations with god”, but don’t let that put you off. You see, most people think about the things they want to have. E.g. a big-ass 3D TV for the materialistic among you. Then they think what they have to do to get it, and hope that they will be something when they have it. The “have -> do -> be” paradigm. In fact, in some sales training I have allowed myself to be sullied with, they tell you to get an image of the BMW M5 you want to buy, and post it next to the phone that you will use to sell things to people. Through strife and cajoling shekels from pockets, you will attain your goal and be happy. That’s the theory.
So though I really want a BMW M5, (or an Audi R8 GT), it doesn’t help to focus on that. It helps to figure out what I want to be. You know, drag-racer, philanthropist, father of the year – the usual things. Then from that will follow what I have to do, and things will pop along. I know I would certainly be father of the year if I had a BMW M5 as it’s a practical family saloon that could get the kids to 60 MPH on the way to school in less than 4 seconds. I fear the Audi would be less practical. I could certainly do some mild drag racing along the way with either car. But that’s me getting all arse about tit with the having and being again.
So the question isn’t really what do I want to do when I grow up, it really is who do I want to be? I like the idea of being a happy, generous chap who helps other people. Kind of like Hannibal from the A-team. Which means that I need a plan so that I can love it when it comes together.