You should listen to my 2013 theme song while you read this: Prizefighter by the Eels.
- I became an adventurer.
Thanks in large part to two unconferences, Up To All Of Us and World Domination Summit, I am more determined than ever to make everything an experience worth having.
- I became a caregiver.
This was an experience I wish could have been avoided, but I have learned a lot. We have to find a way for things like this to be avoided. We have to allow people the opportunity to leave this world on their own terms. Also, fuck cancer.
- I began to learn how to overcome rejection.
WDS was huge for me if only for Jia Jiang’s presentation on embracing rejection. I’ve done things this year I never would have thought of doing, simply by not worrying if someone said “no.” I’m definitely still a work in progress, but I’ve found most of the time the answer is “yes.”
- I began to find my niche.
I have many friends and colleagues who are freelancers on the side, and some full time. I have a true passion for helping them succeed. Some people might call it coaching. Some people call it consulting. I’m not sure what I’m calling it yet, but I’m still the guy you should call first. 😉
- I again realized that I need a product.
Is 2014 the year of the product for me? I hope so, in some form or another.
- I confirmed that travel is my passion.
I want to explore everything and bring as many people along for the ride as I can. I look for opportunities to explore every chance I get. And now I’m buying a hippie van mobile office so I can do it more often and for longer periods of time.
- I started coaching high school rugby.
Go Mustangs.
- I camped more.
Outside. Campfires. Bike rides. Hiking. Cool, fresh air. Exploration. Get out there, people. So much to see and do.
- I found new people, and deepened relationships with other people, who are all awesome.
Overused word? You bet. But it can be true. From new people I just met this year to acquaintances turning to friends to friends turning to best friends, it’s been wonderful to find support, laugh and cry with humans that truly care. People who just want to make things better for everyone.
- Once again, I realized we live in the future.
I love the future. The technology. The progress. The openness. The opportunity. Don’t let the media fool you, this is a great time to be alive.
- I fell back in love with games.
Cards Against Humanity. Relic Expedition. Magic The Gathering. Geeksboro Cafe. All wonderful.
- I received more confirmation that life is short. Vita brevis!
All you people saving all your money for a rainy day or retirement, think again. Do you really want to limit your adventures to a time when you can’t walk or talk or do anything else very well?
Live now. Travel, explore and have fun for as long as you can. Enjoy the ride.
Hi, Brian! I enjoyed this note. I currently work for a state agency as an L&D Coordinator. Otherwise, I agree with much of what your shared. And, I may have a “product” that will be of interest for you and will allow you to continue all of your adventures. Look forward to hearing from you. Thanks, and have a great Friday!