START LIVING & Stop Waiting

From a corporate cubicle to authentic living - see how mortality can motivate your best life.

"The fear of death is rivaled only by the fear of living." Jodi Wellman shares this powerful quote in this week's And Then I Did This episode. Her words capture the essence of why so many of us stay stuck in unfulfilling situations.

The Moment That Changed Everything

Jodi's transformation began with something as simple as running out of staples. Twice.

Working in a corporate office, she made a promise to herself: "I better not be here by the time this row of staples is done."

A year later, she was reloading the same stapler, feeling like she'd delivered herself a gut punch.

Key Insights for Authentic Living

1. Create Your "Pre-Grets" List

Instead of waiting for deathbed regrets, identify what you'd regret NOT doing now. These aren't regrets of commission (things you did) but regrets of omission (chances you didn't take).

2. Count Your Mondays

Jodi's company "4,000 Mondays" reminds us we have roughly 4,000 Mondays in our lifetime. If you’re in your 40s - you have less than 2,000 left, statistically speaking.

When we see life as a limited-time asset, human nature is to treasure it more.

3. Practice Psychological Distancing

Ask yourself: Would the people I admire be sitting in boring meetings doing uninspiring work? If they wouldn't, why are you?

4. Embrace Micro-Moments of Joy

Authentic living isn't about grand gestures. Sometimes it's choosing the sunset walk over laying on the couch, or reading that mystery novel instead of another business book.

The Truth About Courage

We don't wait for courage to arrive. Courage grows from the nerves, butterflies, sweat, and fear. It's made from taking the uncertain, scary step first.

As one coaching question revealed: "Is that the truth, or is that a story you're telling yourself?"

Your Action Step This Week

Start a simple document. Name it something inspiring. Begin capturing what makes you feel most alive.

Because here's the reality: The universe rises up to meet us when we commit to our authentic selves and our lives. But we have to take the first step.

What's your "stapler story" - the moment you realized you needed to make a change? Email me or share it in the comments below.

Listen to the full episode on YouTube: Is Fear of Living Holding You Back?

Also on all major streaming platforms: Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube.

Until next time,

LuRae

Be You and Be Free

P.S. Ready to break free? Check out YouCanBeFree.life for resources to help you live life more on your own terms.