It’s just not working out…

Have you ever wanted something so badly that you literally went after it full throttle, obtained it and then either regretted it or wished the outcome was different?

Around the time the Porsche Cayman was first released, I had only seen “teaser” pics and videos of it online. Then, one day I was walking to my favorite café’ in Los Gatos and saw a silver one slowly growl by me in glorious 3D splendor. All I can say is at that moment, some weird, dysfunctional “mid-life” switch got flipped in my, then 40-year old brain, all reason and rationale dissipated and I became laser focused on owning one of these beasts, whatever the cost! I’m embarrassed to say that the very next day, I walked into the dealership, wrote a big check and drove away in what I thought was “my dream car” without even so much as a test drive! It was as if I was in a trance! As sexy and luxurious as that vehicle was, I quickly began despise it. I didn’t take the time to research how short the chasse was (compared to the Carrera) and how cramped I felt in the cockpit, or how I could feel every little bump on the road because the suspension was so tight, or how I didn’t have a place to store it or how I’d get tired of a heavy clutch in traffic, etc.. Within six months, I got real honest with myself; admitted, “It’s just not working out” and I sold it and moved on.

This was a big (and expensive) learning lesson for me. I tend to lead with my emotions much of the time. I’m spontaneous. I love adventure. I’m willing to take risks. I’m susceptible to being wooed into things that may not always be best for me. Unfortunately, since the Cayman incident, there have been other cases of spontaneity and poor judgment, which have led me to more bad choices and unnecessary (and sometimes ridiculous) purchases. Can anyone else relate?

What’s your Cayman blunder? Maybe your “knee jerk” decisions have had a much more profound outcome or impact on you or your family. Maybe you are prone to making quick decisions without seeking wisdom or sound council? Maybe you are in the middle of considering a big deal or purchase or decision at this very moment and you are in need of clarity.

I truly believe that if I would have taken a few days to think about this purchase more clearly, research it more diligently and seek wise council from either a close friend, mentor or my wife, that I would have not made that purchase and saved myself a lot of hassle and money.

Here’s the challenge. I encourage you (and me) to make it a priority, when we find ourselves “under the trance” and about to pull the trigger on a major purchase or life decision, to take a moment to pray and invite God into the equation. Ask Him for wisdom and discernment and then go to a trusted friend, spouse, parent or mentor and seek further guidance. I promise this exercise will save you much potential pain down the road. 

Please feel free to share your thoughts.

A Verse to Consider: (Proverbs 12:5) The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man is he who listens to counsel.