Life - pause for reflection!

I see that there's lots of threads (as to be expected) about aspirations and ultimately affiliated with success. Usually manifesting itself with Ferrari-ownership!

What about those who don't fit into the younger, aspirational side (under 30's), or those that have worked all their lives to afford their most prized possessions?

What about those who are still in that transitional period? You could treat this as an appraisal (!) - a moment for focus and encouragement

My own reflection is relatively straight forward (I hope! I'm writing this on the "hoof", so who knows where it will go! )

OK, I'm 37, happily married with 2 kids, living in a "fixer-upper" of a 3-bed house in a very desirable part of the English countryside.
Academically, relatively successful, in that I've got quite specific qualifications, focusing on the Audio Engineering and production, education delivery, mentoring and management (in Education).
Everything I've done professionally, I've pretty much fallen in to, or I've been head-hunted.
My single point of focus is to do whatever I'm doing to the best of my ability, whether it be as a Producer/engineer/programmer for pop stars, or as a Departmental Manager for Audio Engineering in a college (where I am now).
I also play in a couple of bands as entertainment (but it also acts as professional development for my day job )

So, have things gone to plan? If I'm honest, probably not
Whilst I loved my time deep in the Music business, because I was working specifically with one group, I didn't get to make the contacts I could have, working with others. So when I parted company with them (never did get that #1 song!), I hit a bit of a brick wall.
Also, as life progressed, decisions regarding progression and direction were largely decided by other commitments: something that has surprised me!
Would I still be in the Industry? Again, probably not! Family life took over and was more desirable.
My current role is the best of both worlds: Teaching/lecturing the new generation in the art of music production, 9-5 hours, evenings, weekends & holidays to focus on my own creativity. Fantastic.

Contrary to popular thoughts, Education is not an area (especially in the UK) you pursue if you want financial security (Neither is the Music business, for that matter!) - you partake in this pursuit for the love of the job. Which is very rewarding, I must say,

However, this has somewhat affected my overall plan to have the BIG house, Ferrari etc. Which is disappointing, if I'm honest. I'm certainly not ungrateful for all that life so far has afforded me in both memories and physical manifestations! But I'd be lying if I didn't want more.

After all, this is what drives us on

So, my focus now, as I approach 40 is to look at things that entertain me.
1. Seeing my kids grow up into successful, healthy, happy and confident adults.
2. Seeing my Wife pursue her dreams and helping her realise those dreams.
3. My own health and happiness.
4. Specifically for me - I do want a Ferrari. It's a goal of mine. I'm a realist in that unless the lottery numbers come in, it will be a used, older example. But a Ferrari nevertheless. And it will be mine to enjoy. The good thing is that the band/live work will afford me the Ferrari - in time. I'm patient.

So in reflection, with exception to the car thing, my goals have actually shifted from my own success, to those around me.

Which I'm pretty happy about. You're only on this planet for a short while - make the time count.

 

But enough about me

What about you lot? Can't be the only one who's reflecting on life........