Recently, my wife and I have decided to move to Austin, Texas. This decision was not an easy one for us. In fact, it’s pretty scary, considering we’re downsizing to a one bedroom and we’re going to, temporarily, live on half of what we are used to.
Yes, these are big changes. Yes, the decision was hard. But, in making the decision there was an incredible learning experience, giving us insight that would not have been available to us. Not only was the experience filled with countless debates, numerous pro and con lists, several budget reworks, but it really forced us to examine our lives, our faith and personality.
It’s reasonable to assume that, at some point, we all have to make huge, life-changing decisions. But, we all know that those types of decisions will be few. Most of our lives will be filled with day-to-day work, savings and holidays. Because life-changing decisions are so novel, I think it might be of some value to someone to talk about a few of the realizations behind my decision to make a risky move.
We are all risk averse. It’s about context.
I’ve always considered myself to be someone who has no problems taking risks. I’d talk a good talk…that’s all…talk. But, as soon as I was faced with the decision to move or stay I became very, very risk averse. When everything is on the line, everyone gets a little fearful. If you have any chance to really take that next step, you have to get a new perspective.
As I was experiencing the fear, I knew it wasn’t right. I knew fear can be seductive and easy to live in, making people feel smart as they accept a less-than scenario. But, I just couldn’t shake it. It was too much. The fear began when I thought about income, housing, friends and all the things that I could lose. I’d focus on the potential loss so much that I couldn’t see any positive. I didn’t consider the market, long-term benefits or the idea that starting over could be more profitable. I just couldn’t see any other scenario where I didn’t loose everything. I was stuck at the horror floor.
