When Big Plans Change

By Victoria (Tori) Martinez

I walked in the door of my house about seven months ago, and I felt like a ghost. I was going through the motions of daily life but without emotion. And in that moment, I realized that's not the way I want to live life. I had to make some pretty hard decisions, life changing decisions, changing the big plan for my future.

I think at some point we all come to that crossroads of choosing to continue living life the way we have been or choosing something different. The unknown can be scary, but the unknown can also be thrilling.

I urge you today to dare to picture your life differently, to picture it full of joy, consumed with passion, surrounded by the people and things you love.

On a daily basis we see too many people trying to change those big plans after a terminal diagnosis, or after a huge life crisis. But you don't have to wait until things are falling apart to make your life better. And in fact, I would urge you not to wait for those major things to happen. Instead ask yourself if you knew you didn't have long on this earth, what would you want to do before you go?

I've read up on some research done with people on their deathbed. They were asked what their biggest regrets were and what where their biggest joys in life. Not one of them ever said they wish they had worked harder or made more money. It was always the regrets of not spending more time with family, not taking the trip they always wanted to, not loving the way they should have. We only have one life to live. Let's live this one life as if it’s the only one we’ve got.

That’s the change in the big plans I had for my future. I’m not waiting, I’m not procrastinating. I am doing the things I’ve always wanted to do. I started that business, Vida Mestiza is the dream and I’m living it. Only this time it’s not just for me. I’m taking you with me on this journey. Instead of just a business to create art, it’s an art business to create belonging, a sense of being seen and understood, poetry that expresses what you can’t find the words to say, art that shows others how you feel and what you are going through as a chronically ill individual. I’m going on those trips, even if it looks different, even if I need mobility aids, even if I can’t go alone. No excuses, just living life to the fullest I possibly can.

Some days I’ll rush to get where I’m going, some days I’ll take it slow and won’t be annoyed by the detours. I wholeheartedly invite you on this journey with me, subscribe to my newsletter and read my weekly blogs. Find the art, piece of clothing, card, or sticker that speaks to you and buy it for yourself. Dream with me, travel with me, and if you are so inclined send me an email and tell me about your adventures and changes to your big plans!

The information shared here is based on personal experience and perspectives. It is not intended to be medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified health care provider for guidance tailored to your individual needs.

This blog is copyrighted to Victoria (Tori) Martinez and may not be reproduced in any way without express permission from the author. Contact the author at 719-480-8739 or at info@vidamestiza.net