On my weekend drives in Illinois, I started to recognize driving as a metaphor for seizing opportunities. My reflexes to quickly turn onto a side street or into a parking lot were pretty weak. I’d pass by, and the moment was lost.
Out here on the road, I’m getting more practice Seizing the Opportunity both in and out of the car. I’ve learned to put up the tent now, while it’s still light out; take down the tent now, because it may rain later; look up driving directions, pay bills, and check email now, while I have internet access; stop for gas now, while there’s a gas station nearby; go for a hike while the weather’s pleasant, before the mosquitoes get horrendous.
You have five seconds to decide- Are you going to take the off ramp and visit this charming seaside town? Are you going to stop at the farm stand? Are you going to pull over and take this picture? You can turn around and go back, but by then, the deer has stolen into the woods, the light has changed, and the scene is no longer picture-worthy.
I feel like I’m practicing for bigger, life-changing opportunities. I need to be prepared to grab them while they are available and within reach.