Not for Me

Today, I found myself thinking of the song But Not for Me.

“They’re writing songs of love, but not for me,
A lucky star’s above, but not for me…”

— George Gershwin

Here’s the context. I enjoy taking lots of online classes. Like many, I don’t get through all of the material in each class I purchase. But I have a bigger problem.

Even when I “learn” the material in an entire class, I don’t always take it to heart. I don’t always put the ideas into action.

Sure, this information is great, I think, “but not for me…”

What a waste!

I’m reminded of this quote from What Color is Your Parachute?

“Most people don’t find their heart’s desire, because they decide to pursue just half their dream — and consequently they hunt for it with only half a heart.”

— Richard Nelson Bolles

Here’s the thing.

It’s much easier to absorb information than it is to take action. While I do my best to take action, I can’t help wondering about the actions I haven’t taken yet.

Never mind the Next New Thing that suddenly seems so much better than what’s in progress!

Sometimes, knowing what’s “not for us” can actually help us stay focused on the good stuff.