First Day at the Beach: A Decision That Changed Everything

by | Aug 10, 2023

Eight years ago, I found myself on the edge of a pivotal decision, one that might seem trivial to many but meant the world to me and, little did I know, would shape my life’s perspective for years to come. Do I take a day off work, a mere 24 hours, to witness my son, Bruno’s, first experience with the sand and the surf? Or do I delay this much-awaited day, reassuring myself that there would always be ‘another time’?

The term “decision” originates from the Latin word decidere, meaning “to cut off.” Essentially, when we decide, we’re cutting ourselves off from other choices. And that day, I decided to be present. I chose to be there for that once-in-a-lifetime moment, and it was priceless. It reminded me that life’s value isn’t just calculated in dollars, but in the memories we create, and the time we invest in the ones we love.

In light of that revelation, here are 10 decisions we face daily that can redefine our priorities:

Time Over Money: Recognizing that while money can be earned back, moments can’t. Do we prioritize time with our loved ones or chase after another dollar?

Presence Over Presents: Choosing to be truly present in moments rather than compensating with gifts. Are we giving our undivided attention where it matters most?

Memories Over Materialism: Deciding to invest in experiences rather than things. Will that new gadget bring as much joy as a day spent with family?

Listening Over Lecturing: Opting to lend a listening ear rather than impose our viewpoint. Can we take a step back to truly understand what our loved ones are saying?

Flexibility Over Rigidity: Choosing to be adaptable in our plans when it benefits our relationships. Can we shift our schedules for a spontaneous family outing?

Patience Over Pressure: Resisting the urge to rush things, especially with our loved ones. Can we allow things to unfold naturally and relish the journey?

Quality Over Quantity: Embracing the idea that it’s not about how much time we spend, but how we spend that time. Are we making the most of every second?

Growth Over Comfort: Deciding to step out of our comfort zone for the sake of our loved ones. Are we willing to try something new just to see a smile on their face?

Understanding Over Assumption: Taking the time to truly understand our loved ones’ needs and feelings. Are we quick to judge or do we seek to understand?

Love Over Everything: Prioritizing love above all else, even when faced with the toughest of choices. Are we making decisions that reflect our love and commitment?

That day at the beach with Bruno wasn’t just about building sandcastles or chasing waves; it was a testament to the choices we make daily and the ripple effects they have on our lives and the lives of those we cherish.

I challenge you to consider these decisions in your life. What will you prioritize today? What memories will you create? Remember, it all starts with a decision.

As I witnessed the joy in Bruno’s eyes during his first beach day, I realized that life is truly what we make of it, defined by the choices we prioritize. Do you ever feel like you’re merely existing, dictated by someone else’s metrics? Do you wish to design a life tailored uniquely to you, defined by your values, dreams, and metrics?

Introducing: Designing Life by Your Metrics – A 4-Week Program

Over the next month, I will guide you through a transformative journey to reshape, redefine, and redesign your life. Dive deep into what truly matters, aligning your daily actions with your long-term vision.

💡 What you’ll gain:

  • Clarity on what truly matters to you beyond societal norms and expectations.
  • Strategies to integrate your values into daily routines and decisions.
  • Empowerment to say ‘yes’ to what aligns with your life vision and ‘no’ to what doesn’t.
  • Tools to measure your life by your unique metrics, ensuring sustained alignment and fulfillment.

🚀 Ready to embark on this transformative journey?

Email me joe@joeperrone.biz or privately message me via the social media channel you discovered this to have a virtual coffee to learn how the 4-Week Program will benefit you.

And…..much like Bruno’s beach day, every moment in life presents an opportunity. Choose to seize them by your design, not default.