“A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.” (William Shedd.) When is it time to leave the safety of our self made harbor and move out to sea? When is it time to make a change? What is keeping us from sailing?

When honest with ourselves, we know when it’s time. Maybe we dread Monday mornings, as our career is sinking into a deepening hole. Perhaps it is a relationship that has become detrimental to our wellbeing. Maybe it is our week-ends that have become predictable and boring. Maybe it is our life that has become predictable and boring.

What moves us out to sea? What is the impetus that allows us to take a risk and make a change? Sometimes it is the realization that time is passing quickly and we are not maximizing precious gifts. Sometimes it is the realization that there has to be more—we are observing rather than experiencing. Sometimes, it is a single event that puts us over the edge and magnifies the intolerable.

The fear of the unknown is a powerful force that oftentimes keeps us complacent. We know what we have—it feels terrifying to cross the abyss to the unknown. The most frightening part is the transition itself. Once we are comfortably out to sea, the anxiety subsides. It is the thought of pulling up anchor and setting sail that causes trepidation.

Next time: Tips for dealing with the transition. I love reading your comments: laura@realwomenwin.com