You Are Meant For So Much More

I don’t usually do this.

There’s a lot of things I don’t share about myself on the internet.

And what I write about in my journal is usually one of them.

But I feel compelled to share this piece I wrote a couple weeks into my trip to Japan.

I hope this resonates with the right people.

10/27/24: Okinawa

What a place. What a beautiful experience. In this ryokan. In this country.

Now, for what I’ve realized.

I’ve gone on enough long vacations to realize I am truly at my happiest and most fulfilled when I am working towards something every day.

That’s not to say I haven’t absolutely loved this trip. (I have, and it was a necessary trip, as all my vacations have been to remind me of these conclusions.)

It’s simply the truth.

Working brings me the most joy.

I love the structure. I love the routine of getting up and doing something difficult I love, and seeing the progress continue, and having just the right amount of stress to induce growth (which I think I’ve done a really good job of creating on a daily basis.)

I like to make an impact, and there’s no impact to be made on vacation without work.

Traveling is fun, and beautiful, and opens my eyes to new perspectives.

But nothing can replace showing up, moving my body, sitting down at my computer, visualizing, strategizing, creating, and doing good for others.

I realize now, more than ever, that one of the only reasons I want to accumulate more money is so I can give those I love more experiences like the ones I am having on this trip.

Especially my parents, who have worked and given so much to me for years.

Doing that for them would be special.

I’m grateful for the breaks—partly for the relaxation, but maybe, mostly, because they realign me with what I was put on this planet to do: work, make progress, struggle voluntarily, and help others.

Quote of The Week

Thanks for reading, everyone. Hope you enjoy your weekend.

-Cole