No Bad Circumstances: Creating the Life You Want
There’s a famous saying that resonates deeply with me: “Look for the circumstances you want. If you cannot find them, make them.” This simple idea is a reminder of the power we each have to shape our lives, regardless of what life throws our way. No circumstance is inherently “bad”—it’s our response to it that determines its effect on us. When we choose to create the conditions we need to succeed, we stop being passive observers and start becoming active architects of our lives.
I’ve seen this mindset transform lives, including my own. Here’s how embracing this approach has helped me turn obstacles into opportunities, and how you can do the same to create the life you want.
Challenging Circumstances: The Starting Point
We all face circumstances that test us—moments that feel frustrating, limiting, or downright discouraging. I once found myself in a situation where I was stuck in a job that didn’t fulfill me. I was grateful to have work, but every day felt like I was going through the motions, disconnected from my passions and potential. I found myself constantly wishing for a better job, a better team, a better life.
It took time, but eventually, I realized that wishing alone wasn’t going to change my circumstances. I could wait forever for the “perfect” opportunity, or I could take matters into my own hands. That’s when I decided to stop accepting the situation as it was and start creating the conditions I wanted. I learned that the power to change wasn’t waiting for me in some other job—it was in my own hands.
Looking for the Circumstances You Want
The first step to creating a life you love is identifying what you want and seeking it out. It sounds simple, but most of us don’t take the time to really reflect on what we’re looking for. I sat down and listed out the qualities I wanted in my work and my life. I wanted creativity, growth, connection, and a sense of purpose.
Once I was clear about what I wanted, I looked for ways to bring those qualities into my current life. I started taking on small projects that excited me, volunteering for opportunities that aligned with my passions, and connecting with people who inspired me. Even though my external circumstances hadn’t drastically changed, my internal experience had. I was actively seeking what I wanted, and in that pursuit, I began to feel more fulfilled.
When You Can’t Find What You’re Looking For, Create It
Of course, there are times when we look for the conditions we want but can’t find them. This is where the real magic happens: when we step up to create what we need.
After seeking fulfillment within my current job, I realized that the things I wanted most couldn’t be satisfied there. So, I took a leap of faith. I began building something on the side—a small passion project that aligned with my values. Initially, it was simply a creative outlet, a way to express myself and share ideas. But over time, it grew. The more I invested in it, the more it became a foundation for the career and life I wanted.
By creating my own path, I no longer felt limited by my circumstances. I wasn’t waiting for the “right” job or the “perfect” moment. I was building it from the ground up, day by day, and with every small step, I was bringing myself closer to the life I had imagined.
The Power of Persistence and Adaptability
Creating the circumstances you want isn’t easy—it requires persistence, resilience, and sometimes, a lot of faith. There were days when I doubted myself, questioned my choices, and felt the weight of uncertainty. But each time I encountered a setback, I reminded myself why I had started in the first place. I focused on the vision I was working toward and adjusted my approach as needed.
Being adaptable became one of my greatest strengths. Sometimes, the path wasn’t clear, and I had to take unexpected turns. But by keeping my eyes on the bigger picture, I was able to turn obstacles into stepping stones and find opportunities in challenges.
Realizing the Freedom to Shape Your Life
As I continued to build the life I wanted, I realized how freeing it was to take control of my circumstances. I no longer felt like I was at the mercy of external factors. The circumstances I had initially seen as limitations became stepping stones, guiding me to where I wanted to go.
Today, I live by this mindset. No situation, no matter how difficult, has the power to limit me. I choose to see every experience as an opportunity to create something meaningful, and in doing so, I feel empowered to pursue the life I truly want.
How You Can Create the Circumstances You Want
If you find yourself in a situation that feels restrictive or unfulfilling, remember that you have the power to change it. Here are some steps that helped me and might help you, too:
Define What You Want: Get clear on the qualities and conditions you desire. Whether it’s a fulfilling job, a strong support system, or personal growth, identify what matters most to you.
Look for Small Wins: Even if you can’t make a big change immediately, look for small ways to bring those qualities into your life now. Start a side project, connect with like-minded people, or develop skills that align with your goals.
Take Action: Don’t wait for the perfect opportunity to appear—create it. Whether it’s starting a new habit, building something on the side, or making a small lifestyle shift, take consistent steps toward the life you want.
Stay Adaptable: Life rarely goes exactly as planned, so be prepared to adjust your approach. Challenges are often opportunities in disguise, and adaptability will help you turn setbacks into progress.
Believe in Your Power: Remember that you are not defined by your circumstances. Believe in your ability to shape your life, and let that belief guide you forward.
Building a Life of Purpose and Fulfillment
No matter where you are or what challenges you face, you have the ability to create the circumstances you want. Life isn’t about waiting for perfect conditions; it’s about making the most of what you have and building a path that aligns with your dreams. When you look for the circumstances you want—and create them when they don’t exist—you become the architect of your own life.
Embrace the journey, trust in your power, and take each step with purpose. You’ll find that not only are you able to create the life you desire, but you’ll also discover a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment along the way.
