How to Maximize Life’s Unexpected Surprises

Life is full of surprises and serendipity. Being open to unexpected turns in the road is an important part of success. If you try to plan every step, you may miss those wonderful twists and turns. Just find your next adventure-do it well, enjoy it-and then, not now, think about what comes next.  ~ Condoleeza Rice

I am a planner, an organizer.  However, this summer took all my best plans, dressed them in tutus, and sent them doing pirouettes off the stage like ballet-dancing hippos.  

Four months ago, I sold my organizing business and began working with the fantastic people at Sandler of Chattanooga.  It was an exciting and welcome change.  However, I am married to a brilliant man.  Six weeks ago, his company offered him a promotion and transfer to the Savannah, Georgia area.

Thus, an unexpected turn in the road has led my family to relocate to the coast of Georgia.  It’s beautiful here – don’t feel too sorry for me.

I’ve made a journey from Point A (Chattanooga, TN) to Point B (Savannah, GA).  I suspect that you’ve had plenty of these “adventures” yourself – whether it’s relocation, job change, or any major life or work shift.  So how do we do it well?

Questions to ask when going from Point A to Point B:

• What did I like about Point A that I want to maintain in Point B?
• What was dissatisfying about Point A?  What steps can I take to lessen the likelihood of recurrence at Point B?
• What opportunities are available in Point B that I did not have at Point A?  How do I seize them?
• What limiting factors are present in Point B?  How do I overcome those?

For those of you who are familiar with a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) analysis, the questions above will seem less original.

What comes next for me?

• I will coach and train people just as I have since 2007 – in person and remotely
• I will maintain a partnership with Sandler of Chattanooga
• I will develop video-based mini courses and other information products to sell on my new website, melissagratias.com
• I will enjoy my Point B and do it well

Wish me well, friends.  I’m so glad you’re here for the ride.