In the past five years, I’ve been moving through a transformational period of change… saying goodbye to many thoughts and belief patterns holding me back and saying hello to things I never thought were possible. I’ve been graced with the joys, struggles, and sacrifices that have brought me to where I am now and gifted with incredible people and experiences in my life. Although the process of change is a constant, I know this particular phase of my life is coming to a close and I am embarking on a new beginning, one filled with unanticipated challenges, experiences, and possibilities. As I contemplate where I am now and where I came from, I share with you some reflections:
- Perfection is in the Eye of the Beholder. Our own definition of perfection is completely different from someone else’s, and our idea of perfection can be so high we make it unattainable. We can choose to stop holding to any unattainable standards we create for ourselves and instead do the best we can in every given moment. The best we can do is enough and the best we can do is perfect.
- There is No Need to Always Know the Answer. The Question is Enough. We are so conditioned to expect quick solutions, but the strength gained from contemplating the question alone is truly transforming. Be patient, the answer will come in its own time if and when you are ready to receive it.
- No One Else’s Timeline Matters Except Your Own. Allow yourself to do things in your own time and avoid adhering to expectations that may compromise your health, energy levels, and state of mind. Be confident in communicating your needs to others and move forward at your own pace.
- It’s OK to Color Outside the Lines. Take a chance, be yourself, deviate from the plan, have fun and be creative! Express who you truly are without fear and allow yourself to enjoy who you are.
- Honor Yourself. As Kenny Rogers sings in his song, The Gambler, “…know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em, know when to walk away, know when to run.” Hold on to what serves you, step away from what does not, and take definitive action to remove yourself from situations that bring you down. Use your instinct and intellect to discern what is best for you and what is not.
- You Can Be Anything You Want to Become. Although our culture may sometimes seem to send us a different message, we all have the power within ourselves to be all we want to be. To do so requires tough choices and hard work, and that is OK because much of our growth, learning, strength, and appreciation come from hardship. What we truly desire will not get handed to us. Choosing to take action and doing the work allows us to value all we have now, all we strive to become, and to enjoy the fruits of our efforts. Make the choice and act on it.
With Love, Light, and Gratitude,
Sandy
