Stop worrying, start preparing.

1 min 23 secs

Our desires consume us.

The dream job, the right person, the big break.

Yet, when they arrive, they often feel like waves we weren’t ready to surf. The problem isn’t a lack of opportunity; it’s how we spend the "waiting" period.

Imagine knowing your dream would come true in six months—guaranteed.

Would you stress or prepare? Would you spiral into doubt or sharpen your skills?

When I started freelancing, I was desperate to land clients. The lack of work made me feel inadequate, so instead of using the downtime to improve, I let frustration consume me.

Why bother learning more if I'm not getting any work anyway?

Then, out of nowhere, a billionaire founder asked if I could make animations. I felt like I was on top of the world! But... I had never done animations before.

I said yes regardless and rushed to learn everything I could, pulled all-nighters, and somehow, the project turned out great. (Sigh!)

Looking back, I saw my mistake: I could have spent that “waiting period” learning new skills instead of worrying about where I would use them.

The same applies to relationships.

I once had a crush on someone. I would fantasize about a potential future together, imagining how perfect it would be.

Then, when they finally showed interest in being with me, it felt too overwhelming. I had spent so much time longing that I hadn’t done the inner work to meet them from an emotionally mature place.

Next time you find yourself hoping or waiting for something, don’t just desire it, but prepare for it.

Then, when the knock finally comes, you’ll open the door with confidence, not shock.

Sincerely,

Ash Lamb

(278 of 500 words)

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