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If money were no object I'd...

© Kelly L. Henderson

If you were independently wealthy and did not have to work to support yourself and your family, what would you do with your life? How would you spend your time?

For those of us who don't know what we want to do in life, who aren't sure whether we have a passion or a calling, the answer to this question might provide a clue. If money were no object what would you do?

I know my answer. I'd study music. I'd find a house in which I could create a studio large enough for two grand pianos (one should have a spare!). I'd find just the right pianos and keep a piano tuner on retainer. I'd continue to take my weekly piano lessons and enroll in some other music courses too. One day I'd go back to university and study toward a music degree. Along the way I'd work up a little 'lounge act' I can perform from time to time.

There's more of course. One can see all sorts of possibilities when money is not a worry or an issue. I'd probably want to move back home and go house shopping there. Travel a little more often. Visit the local humane society and adopt some pets. And find ways of contributing to the community. The philanthropic possibilities when you're filthy rich would be simply endless.

What would you do? Would you start a business of your own if there were no risk of financial failure? Would you move to Hawaii for a permanent surfing holiday? Maybe you would throw over your position as a high-powered executive to open a daycare for children. Or decide to travel around the world studying history and trekking through ruins.

If there were no limitations what would you do with yourself? How would you spend your days? Where would you find meaning in your life?

Maybe your answer would surprise you. Maybe you love what you're doing right now and couldn't imagine doing anything else. If so, you're lucky. You've found your 'thing', your calling already.

But for those of you who haven't, this kind of dreaming might give you a glimpse into the life you really want. Think big, think outrageous, think no bounds. How would you express your talents and gifts? What desires are at the very core of your being? What fond wish have you never dared reveal to anyone?

Something you may discover when you dream like this, and especially when you write it down and can review it in black and white, is that it's not all that outrageous after all.