Life frequently places valuable opportunities in our paths. Unfortunately, many of us are insufficiently attuned to our environment to spot them. Others recognize the prospects, but they are so committed to the rut they have trod for themselves that they are afraid to take so much as a step off their set course even when doing so promises enormous rewards. Still others are too afraid to take what they perceive to be a big risk or they are too lazy to make the necessary effort.

I’m a firm believer in the philosophy that says, when life presents you with a golden opportunity you should do everything in your power to seize it and use it to its greatest advantage; even if that means taking an enormous diversion from the normal course of your life. Make the extraordinary effort. Climb out on an intimidating limb. Take a fearsome gamble. In short, do whatever it takes to make the most of the opportunity. It may never come your way again.

For example, when I pass a Starbucks and see there’s an empty table inside I usually go in, order a doppio espresso and a pastry, sit down and enjoy it. I don’t know what the situation is where you live, but an empty table in a Starbucks is an opportunity that presents itself only very rarely in downtown Toronto. I know; I know; I’m an recklessly impetuous guy, but sometimes you just have to reach out and grab the opportunities that life hands you. Besides, holing up in a Starbucks while I enjoy a nice espresso and pastry protects me, for at least a little while, from being bombarded by other opportunities that threaten to divert me from my life’s course.