We Don’t Have Ten Thousand Years: A Personal Reflection on Courage, Clarity & Change

These first three months of the year have been sobering. I recently had to say goodbye to a loved one, which required a whirlwind journey—five planes, two trains, and moments of deep emotional reflection. It wasn’t something I was prepared for, but in the rapid movement, I found stillness. I found clarity.

Life has a way of pulling us into unexpected storms, and when that happens, we’re left with the kind of questions that stir the soul:

1. What is my focus now?

2. If I had to change anything, what would it be?

3. How do I shift gears this year?

4. What do I truly care about now?

The Flight That Changed My Perspective

Not long ago, I was on a flight to Portugal. As we approached landing, we were caught in thick clouds—hovering, waiting. It was quiet. Tense. And in that silence, I reminded myself: I can be present with myself, even here.

Fear and regret often influence the decisions we make. But in that moment, I chose presence over panic. I remembered that joy is always within reach, even in uncertainty.

I started asking myself: What brings me full joy? For me, it’s singing. It’s nature. It’s sharing stories. It’s being a guide for others in transition.

After the Storm, the Rainbow

When we finally landed, our Uber driver turned and said, “Looks like the rainbow came out just for you.” And I believed him.

There’s something so powerful about moving through a storm and realizing you’re still standing. Still growing. Still reaching toward the light.

If you’ve been feeling burned out, bored, or like your priorities have shifted, listen to that. Your inner compass is never wrong. Maybe you’re tired. Maybe something no longer aligns. That’s okay. Give yourself permission to adjust course.

From Imposter Syndrome to Re-Dedication

Let’s be real—I’ve battled imposter syndrome too. I love to sing, but I procrastinated on vocal practice for years. My husband even bought me tools to help, and I still hesitated. Why? Because when you really love something, there’s fear in not doing it “perfectly.”

But here's what I’ve learned: Change doesn’t happen because we want it. Change happens because we intend it.

Your transformation is tied to your decisions, your daily actions, and your willingness to re-dedicate yourself to the things that light you up.

Maybe it’s writing. Or painting. Or starting your own practice. Whatever your gift is—develop it. Make room for it. Say yes to it.

Let Go to Grow

Sometimes, we need to love people from a distance. We hold on to relationships, ideas, or roles that no longer fit, and wonder why we feel stuck. When you release what no longer serves you, you make space for what does.

Persistence isn’t about grinding every day—it’s about doing the right work at the right time. Even the small steps matter.

And remember this: You don’t have ten thousand years. So why not start now?

Join Me in Celebrating Stories of Courage

April is Poetry Month, and we’re celebrating it with our Stories of Courage series. This month, we’re hosting events that explore the resilience, vulnerability, and strength it takes to move through life’s storms and still choose joy.

 I’d love to see you there. You can register at: 👉 tolgispark.com/events

Let’s reflect, grow, and celebrate together.

With courage, Dr. Allana Da Graca

Who I Am

I’m Dr. Allana Da Graca—an Entrepreneurship Coach, Speaker, and founder of the the International Women Build Confidence Conference. For over 20 years, I’ve helped individuals tap into their purpose, push past fear, and take intentional action. Whether it’s through storytelling, personal development, or creative expression, I believe we all have a spark—and I’m here to help you ignite it.We Don’t Have Ten Thousand Years: A Personal Reflection on Courage, Clarity & Change