TAKE THE TRIP NOW
When I first sat down to write my book, “Road Work: Images and Insights of a Modern Day Explorer” it was tentatively named “Tomorrow Never Comes”. Little did I know then that the actual final title would eventually reveal itself as the content of the book developed. Looking back I’m glad I listened to the advice of a couple of folks who were enlisted to read early drafts of the book and offer their suggestions.
Though the work eventually wound up taking on numerous different topics, the theme of “Tomorrow Never Comes” did surface numerous times in the book. Today seemed like a good time to revisit some of the ideas I brought forth in the book. A recent blog post: “Taking That Long Distance Road Trip” strongly encouraged riders to get out and take that dream “bucket list” trip that they’ve been contemplating for far too long. Many readers reached out to me personally to discuss the topic further.
The Thought Behind The Phrase
The phrase “tomorrow never comes” means that the future is always uncertain, and there is no guarantee that we will have tomorrow or even the next moment. Therefore, we should focus on living in the present and making the most of every moment rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.
It is important to plan for the future and set goals for ourselves. However, we should not allow worry or anxiety about the future consume us to the point where we neglect our present life. Instead, we should find a balance between living in the moment and preparing for the future.
And This Applies To Motorcycling How?
In my book I wrote the following: “In many of the online motorcycling forums I participate in there is always talk of “Bucket List” rides…discussions about the places where people dream of traveling. Some of the posts seemed to be penned by wishful thinkers who have resigned themselves to the fact that they will never have the opportunity to make their dreams come true; and some are being reported, in real time, by folks that are actually out there living the dream.”
Too many riders are focused on the rides that they’re going to take someday. Someday might be when their children grow up, when they have a more flexible work schedule, when their best friend is ready to join them, when they’ve accumulated a certain amount of wealth, when they retire, etc. The rationalizations for their procrastination are as numerous and diverse as the people that are offering them up. The last time I looked at the calendar “Someday” was not one of the days of the week.
The Case For Doing It Now
First and foremost, life is unpredictable, and there is no guarantee that we will have the time and resources to pursue our personal desires in the future. Illness, accidents, and unexpected life events can all disrupt our plans and leave us unable to do the things we once hoped to do. By putting off our personal desires, we run the risk of missing out on opportunities that may never come again.
Furthermore, delaying personal fulfillment can have negative effects on our mental and emotional well-being. Studies have shown that having unfulfilled personal desires can lead to feelings of regret, anxiety, and depression. When we neglect our own needs and desires, we may begin to feel unfulfilled and resentful, leading to a sense of dissatisfaction with our lives.
The Only Thing That Is Certain Is Uncertainty
Another reason why people should not put off their personal desires for the future is that life can become increasingly unpredictable as we age. Health problems, financial issues, and family responsibilities can all make it more difficult to pursue personal desires later in life.
Moreover, waiting until retirement to pursue personal desires can be problematic because it can be difficult to adjust to a new lifestyle after years of working and living a certain way. After spending decades in a career, it can be challenging to transition to a new way of life and pursue personal desires with the same level of dedication and energy as before.
Finally, pursuing personal desires in the present can lead to a greater sense of purpose, accomplishment and fulfillment in life. When we prioritize our own needs and desires, we can feel more energized, motivated, and engaged with the world around us. By pursuing personal fulfillment, we can cultivate a sense of meaning and purpose that can carry us through the rest of life’s challenges and uncertainties.
The Clock Is Ticking
None of us are getting any younger. Truth. Personally I’m glad I did some of the things I did when I was a younger man. You think long distance motorcycle travel is physically demanding? Try deep sea fishing. I’d be hard pressed to go out in pursuit of giant tuna or blue marlin with my current 68 year old body. Could I have been doing better things with my time and money when I was engaging in that crazy sport? Absolutely. Do I regret it now? A little. But like Frank Sinatra sang in the song “My Way” (written by Paul Anka, by the way):
“Regrets, I’ve had a few;
But then again too few to mention.”
As I also said in my book: “It doesn’t do any good whatsoever to dwell on mistakes you might have made in the past. We can only learn from past mistakes and modify future behavior for the better. The only day that matters is the one before you. Today.”
Determine your “WHY”
I wasted a lot of precious time and money in pursuits that are no longer part of my life. Fishing, buying and restoring vintage muscle cars, competitive shooting sports, golf. Yes, golf. Can you imagine me doing that passionately? Well, there really was a time.
Figure out, as early in life as possible, what it is that really lights you up. Pursue that with all your heart and soul. It took me far too long to realize that long distance motorcycle touring was my true passion. That, and my art, are the only two things that have stood the test of time for me.
Don’t make the same mistakes I did. You can’t be all things to all people. People don’t like you for the things you own…but they do respect you for the devoted and genuine person you are. Again, from my book: “Live your best possible life today. Every day is a gift and people should strive to make the most of each and every one they’re blessed with.” I’m a biker…have been for nearly four decades…and hope to remain one until the day I leave this planet for whatever is next. If you feel the same way, get out and ride today because tomorrow never comes.
Tomorrow Never Comes • Conclusion
My apology if this post had a somewhat somber tone to it. Once again my intention is simply to inspire other riders to take on challenges that they don’t think they’re up for yet. There will come a time in your life when you start staring down your own mortality. Perhaps I’m starting to reach that stage in my life.
I usually don’t talk about personal matters too much, but I’m heading back into the hospital again in two days. This will be my second surgical procedure and third hospital stay in two months. This is the first ‘the public’ is hearing about this. I have 100% confidence in my doctors. More importantly, I can’t wait to get back on the road and back to bringing more great, inspirational content to my followers. The only thing really on my mind is being physically ready for a big road trip I have planned for June. The fact that this is the concern that is foremost on my mind tells me that I’ve truly found my “Why”. Find yours…and pursue it passionately. Ride safe, everyone. See you on the road.
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Your book is appropriately named. My first motorcycle ride came about 1960 or so when I was 8. I’m pushing 71 now, ridden in 49 states, 10 provinces and 3 European countries and over 400,000 recorded miles to my credit. My point is that I ride because it stimulates my desire to keep going, to find my limitations and keep me young. My rides go from 6 days to 3 weeks. Just get out and do it, whatever it is,