Whenever we’re working on something big, something bigger than we think we’re capable of doing, we have to make trade-offs. We give up some time, some flexibility, some funds, maybe even some fun activities that we would otherwise do.
In times like this, I find it’s most helpful to think of sacrifice as investment rather than loss. It’s really a transfer of energy. We give up a bit now to work toward achieving something tomorrow that will help us fulfill our purpose. Investment causes us to re-prioritize, and that re-prioritization implies change. Change is never easy, even when it’s welcomed. There is always a period of adjustment.
Be kind to yourself in these times of transition. Understand that what you give up today pales in comparison to the joy and satisfaction of realizing a dream. Recognize that we always have a choice, and in making these investments we are living up to the responsibility of carving our own path.
Let it unfold. Give it the time it needs to show its true and full value. There will be plenty of time for reflecting on and judging the choice. Now, commit to making the most of it and giving it the very best shot at success.
Published by Christa Avampato
The short of it:
Writer. Health, education, and art advocate. Theater and film producer. Visual artist. Product geek. Proud alumnae of the University of Pennsylvania (BA) and the Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia (MBA). Inspired by ancient wisdom & modern tech. Proliferator of goodness. Opener of doors. Friend to animals. Fan of creative work in all its wondrous forms. I use my business skills to create passion projects that build a better world. I’ve been called the happiest New Yorker, and I try hard to live up to that title every day.
The long of it:
My career has stretched across Capitol Hill, Broadway theatre, education, nonprofit fundraising, health and wellness, and Fortune 500 companies in retail, media, entertainment, technology, and financial services. I’ve been a product developer and product manager, theater manager, strategic consultant, marketer, voice over artist, , teacher, and fundraiser. I use my business and storytelling to support and sustain passion projects that build a better world. In every experience, I’ve used my sense of and respect for elegant design to develop meaningful products, services, programs, and events.
While building a business career, I also built a strong portfolio as a journalist, novelist, freelance writer, interviewer, presenter, and public speaker. My writing has appeared in The Washington Post, The Huffington Post, PBS.org, Boston.com, Royal Media Partners publications, and The Motley Fool on a wide range of topics including business, technology, science, health, education, culture, and lifestyle. I have also been an invited speaker at SXSW, Teach for America, Avon headquarters, Games for Change, NYU, Columbia University, Hunter College, and the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. The first book in my young adult book series, Emerson Page and Where the Light Enters, was acquired by a publisher and launched in November 2017. I’m currently working on the second book in the series.
A recovering multi-tasker, I’m equally at home in front of my Mac, on my yoga mat, walking my rescue dog, Phineas, traveling with a purpose, or practicing the high-art of people watching. I also cut up small bits of paper and put them back together as a collage artist.
My company:
I’m bringing together all of my business and creative career paths as the Founder of Double or Nothing Media:
• I craft products, programs, and projects that make a difference;
• I build the business plans that make what I craft financially sustainable;
• I tell the stories that matter about the people, places, and products that inspire me.
Follow my adventures on Twitter at https://twitter.com/christanyc and Instagram at https://instagram.com/christarosenyc.
View all posts by Christa Avampato
Great quote. Great post – one of my favorite people expanding on a thought by one of my favorite teachers. Your advice, “Be kind to yourself in these times of transition. Understand that what you give up today pales in comparison to the joy and satisfaction of realizing a dream.” is timely for me today. Thank you!!!
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Hi Lon! I am so glad this post was helpful. It was helpful for me too – I need my own reminders.
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