Celebrating eight weeks post surgery today, my perspectives on life have either strengthened or changed. Jotting them down over the last 50+ days, I thought it was fitting to share reflecting on the positives of my journey thus far.
1. Nothing worth doing is ever easy, and quite often, doing the right thing can be the most challenging. There are times when we struggle with knowing which road to take. But as long as your moral compass is always pointing north, you’ll be guided in your choices and decisions.
2. Fear doesn’t exist outside of our own minds. But it’s a powerful force that can hold us back from our true potential and should (and can) be controlled. You can either have faith or fear in your heart – but there’s not room for both. Which do you choose?
3. Surround yourself with individuals that lift you up, encourage you, and genuinely care for you. Toxic people might make for great “good time” friends, but you’ll quickly discover your true friends in times of personal crisis.
4. Always stand up for what you believe in, no matter how much it may go against the grain. What’s right isn’t always popular, but what’s popular isn’t always right. Stick to your values – what makes you “YOU”! In the words of our forefather Thomas Jefferson, “In matters of style, swim with the current. In matters of principle, stand like a rock.”
5. There is nothing more important, and in most cases, anyone that will ever love you more than your family. Hold onto them and cherish them. Everyone and everything else is secondary.
6. The sooner you step out of your comfort zone, the sooner you realize that it wasn’t all that uncomfortable. Branching out makes life more interesting and worth living.
7. Never rely on anyone else to fulfill you or make you happy. Happiness comes from within, from finding (and being) yourself, and just being okay with who you are as a person. Relying on others diminishes our souls and we fail to enjoy the “ride of life.”
8. Some of the most enjoyable times have been those completely unplanned, unscheduled and totally spontaneous. Allow yourself and life flexibility – your loved ones will thank you.
9. Life is 10% about what happens and 90% what you do about it. Your reactions, your ability to learn from negative experiences, and your attitude toward life is what makes all the difference in the world.
10. There are very few problems a long walk, great music, glass of wine or a hearty laugh can’t at least make better – if not fix altogether.
11. Life is too short to not forgive. There will always be someone who said and did hurtful things. However, carrying that baggage down life’s road will only weigh down your spirit and diminish your potential. It’s never easy to forgive someone and doing so certainly does not justify their behavior. But it’s the right thing to do. And necessary to fully heal your heart to move on.
12. Be somebody who makes everyone feel like a somebody. A simple act of kindness can have rippling effects on others in need of positivity or a push of encouragement. Our world is so negative – be the bright light for those around you.
13. Finally, take the time to get to know yourself – on the deepest level possible. Discover your passions and what drives you. Once you discover your “why,” you’ll live a more purposeful and meaningful life. Do what you love and always remember you are significant.
Hugs, love and strength.