Think about something you wanted to do, or someone that caught your attention that you wanted to talk too (think attraction), but you let the opportunity pass you by.
As I continue to grow as a person and life evolves, my goal is to have fewer of those missed opportunities and to go after things that I want out of life. It’s not easy… and can be scary at times – actually, uncomfortable might be a better word than scary.
Allow me to give somewhat of a personal example.
[Note: I got out of a long-term relationship at the end of 2008 and spent last year “finding myself,” or at least attempting to do so. I’m to the point now where I’m open to dating… although I very much dislike the process.]
Last night while at the grocery store I noticed a female out of the corner of my eye – she looked very fit, sporty if you will. As I continued to walk around picking up a few random items we continued to cross paths, but only exchanged smiles.
While walking to the checkout we met once again, although this time she looked a bit confused and I blurted out, “You look completely lost right now.” It just came out. As it turns out she was looking for sparkling water… I pointed her in a direction and off she went.
I wanted to continue the conversation somehow, but didn’t do so for whatever reason.
After paying for my groceries I headed to the parking lot and got in my car. As I headed towards the exit she walked through the parking lot and we once again exchanged smiles.
While driving off the conversation in my head went something like, “Seriously Ryan, you idiot! Why didn’t you start a conversation?”
I eventually exited the shopping center and came to a stoplight that was red. As I sat waiting for the light to turn green guess what happened? If you guessed that she pulled up next to me you’d be right.
Both of our windows were down and when she looked over and the following conversation insued,
Me: “Do you realize how attractive you are?”
Her: “[While laughing] Thank you.”
Me: “I wanted to say something when I drove by in the parking lot, but I was too chicken.”
Her: [She again laughed – this time probably at me.]
Me: “Hi, my name is Ryan.”
Her: “Hi, I’m (her name).
Me: (Her car had a roof rack) “So do you ride (bikes)?”
Her: “Yes, but I’m not very good.”
Me: “Well, at least you look like a pro with the roof rack.”
The light then turned green and as the car behind us honked I said, “I’m ryan@ryanshell.com. Look me up.” (Of course “Look me up” made no sense at all) She smiled and off we went in different directions.
As I drove off I couldn’t help but smile… partially because the conversation humored me, but also because I was happy that the opportunity didn’t pass me by. It almost did – no doubt about it.
I know this is a roundabout story that’s probably more than I should divulge, but the point is that going after things you want out of life, even random conversations, can bring you great satisfaction.
Sometimes you have to step out on a limb and go for what you want. Granted, that limb might break on occasion, but at least you gave it a shot.
PS – she emailed me this morning. Woot woot to that.
