Alexis Senge JohnsonLooking back at the last 3.5 decades of my life, it’s hard to see any block of years as anything other than impactful in the grand scheme of things. Marriage, divorce, job changes, new relationship, second marriage and two children…it’s been a whirlwind of ups and downs that culminate in a long list of learning opportunities. Not every step was in a world of rainbows and sunshine, but every single moment lead me to the next step, choice and new experience. Ultimately, I wouldn’t change a moment.
Have you ever tried to summarize a year or 10 years? After looking back, I think this last decade was a lesson in learning how to be true to myself. It’s something I think I’ve always struggled with as a classic people pleaser, but as I moved out of my twenties and into my thirties I realized the common goal was increasingly forfeiting my personal brand and beliefs to honor those of others. Good news is that I took the time to recognize that so I could begin learning how to change my habits.
If looking back at the last decade seems intimidating then start with yesterday or last week. You can learn something from everything, whether the experience was positive or lacking, so what did you learn? Now dig back a bit further to the last month or few months. Is there a common thread that you see unfolding? Maybe you’re over committing yourself, like I’m notorious for, or you’ve lost direction and find yourself lacking motivation because of it. Whatever the case is, every day is a new chance to make a change so don’t throw in the towel. You can make a new choice and try an alternative route until you find the one that sits well with your soul.
“You have power over your mind, not outside events. Realize this and you will find strength.”
– Marcus Aurelius
While I didn’t give in and convert the garage to a tap studio, just yet, I did at least start creating a space of happiness for myself in our bedroom. A space where I can tune out the stress and anxiety of the day and giving myself the gift of serenity for my body has been eye opening. I’m slowly finding myself again and remembering that life isn’t meant to be a passive experience.
It’s up to us to forge our own paths in our personal and professional worlds, so don’t sit back waiting to react to what life throws at you. Proudly be the proactive captain of your ship and set your new intentions for the day, week, month, year and decade ahead. You’ve got what you need in your bag of tricks, so believe in yourself and you’ll be amazed at what that empowers you to accomplish. 2020: Don’t be a lady, be a legend!
