“Today I no longer need to change the world around me, I just need to change the way I see it.”
I love the new year for the fact that it’s a metaphorical reset button. It provides a promise of hope that this could be the year to finally do that thing or make that change – whatever it may be.
Recently, I was reminded of an article that I read years ago in the GR Press ‘Your Life’ section that highlighted a local resident who was doing great things in our city.
It featured a woman who had a similar background to my own – she had three children (as I did at that time) and was married to a Chef / restaurant owner, a successful career (I was primarily working from home), etc. I read that article and felt like I could learn something from this woman – just how did she manage to accomplish so much? It actually compelled me to write her a letter.
I congratulated her on the article and said how impressed I was with her ability to balance work, family, and life in general. I also asked if she’d ever be willing to meet for coffee and share some of her strategies and wisdom. I knew there was a good chance I’d never hear back from her but thought it was worth a try. Needless to say, I received no response.
Fast forward 18 months… out of the blue I got an email from the woman. She informed me that she did in fact receive my letter and was very appreciative, but felt at the time her life was nowhere near balanced — in fact she was on a bit of a roller coaster. So she placed my letter in a desk drawer and never responded. Then one day she cleaned out that drawer and found herself in a much better place and reached out to meet with me.
I share this story for a few reasons:
1. Stop comparing your life to others. I’ll never forget the day I actually met with the woman. She was lovely and we had a nice visit but what I discovered is (of course!) no one has it all figured out. But there’s always an opportunity to learn from and give to others.
2. Don’t let fear of rejection or failure stop you from trying something new. We’ve all heard the phrase — get outside of your comfort zone. It doesn’t matter what it is — if it could create something positive in your life (a new friendship / connection or a healthy habit), why not try? If the change or action could generate something positive you have nothing to lose.
3. Start today. The aforementioned woman did not have to take the time (months later) to connect but I’ll always appreciate her willingness to do so. Doing something different and creating change — whether it’s exercising, eating healthier, drinking less, networking more — can happen whenever you determine. January 1st is a great date but if things haven’t been moving in the right direction yet… January 19th works well too! 🙂
Here’s hoping your reset is up and running and 2017 is your year! Thanks so much for your business. Wishing you a month of bliss!
– Jennifer (& Mark) McNamara, Bliss & Vinegar Owners