Do What Makes You Happy

By: Kayce Johnson

"It’s not unusual to filter yourself to certain people, and in life there are situations that demand that we do just that. In a professional setting one may alter the way they talk, do things they don’t particularly want to do - my job requires me to wear a string of pearls every day, that’s right, pearls.

In this way a paycheck acts as negative reinforcement for conformity to expectations. Unfortunately that check represents something we all want and need in this world to get by. However, the only reason we want and need it is because of a system someone else created that we are forced to live by. Already a big part of our lives is decided for us. For most people the discontent associated with this is rooted in a discrepancy between what gifts, talents, and interests they possess and what they are actually doing.

The next generation up in my family thinks that retirement is the point in life when you do what you want, and before that you find a company you can stick with and you climb that corporate ladder until your arms look like Arnold Schwarzenegger. However, the world has changed with its economy, and the previous formula for success is no longer a viable option. Also now that they are at retirement age they look at the lives they have lived, not with regret necessarily but with more wisdom, realizing that life is only but so long. Tomorrow is not guaranteed and as you get older, the list of things you want to do only gets longer. So whatever your age now is the time to make every day your life.

Procrastinating is a mistake because you never know what your circumstances may be tomorrow. Failing to try is failing yourself and not using whatever gifts you have been given is simply a waste. So if you don’t think the name badge you wear every day properly represents you, then make sure that you do. Every day is an opportunity and when it comes down to it the only person you have to answer to is yourself. Make sure you feel good about the way you responded to life’s call." 

You can see more thoughts, pictures and posts from Kayce at her Tumblr page, "you missed a spot." 

Also, stay tuned for Kayce's visit and interview series done with Richmond-based punk band T-Division. Very dope - coming soon!!!