One year ago today, I wrote the song, Raise It Up. I was sitting at my freshly cleaned desk (can't start the new year with a messy desk), and thinking what I wanted to improve on in the coming year. The answer was EVERYTHING. A little daunting, yes, but I can't back away from a big challenge. I wrote on my little white board 3 words RAISE - IT - UP!!! It became my mantra for the year.
And the year happened. It was challenging on almost every level. My faith was tested, my hormones were tested, my stamina was tested, my patience was tested, my ability to lead was tested, my abiity to listen was tested, my finances were tested and my confidence was tested. I would say that by August, I was done with the tests, I wanted to move forward instead of being a 3-wheeled shopping cart going 'round in circles not getting anywhere. The enthusiasm I had on December 31st was long gone. I had to stop allowing the challenges to intimidate me and not just talk about raising my standards and expectations but really do it.
So, what did I do?
1. I started excercising--every day (I've lost 27 pounds too)
2. I started eating better--I had already given up caffiene two years prior, now I am eating better and drinking (alcohol) less
3. I changed doctors--just because you've been with someone a long time, doesn't mean they're right for you through every phase of your life
4. I stopped allowing things I can't control to get to me. If someone judges me for something I can't control it's their problem not mine.
5. I read. Sometimes breaking out of funk is as simple as looking at things from another's perspective
6. I prayed. I really prayed. I prayed for clairity, patience and understanding.
7. I softened my tone. Not so amazingly, my husband and kids responded in kind.
8. I laugh at myself...'cause when I think about it, I am really a character.
9. I enjoy the quiet of my own company...I always have and had to remember that.
10. I approach the things I have to do passionately because I am a passionate person.
So, now it is a year later. I am ready to retire 2009, and am glad that it didn't totally kick my tuchus; I prevailed. I am looking forward to 2010 with hope and joy. The CD whose title took last year's inspiration as its name is now out and I hope to bring others along for a great ride in the coming months.
Happy and Healthy New Year to all!
And the year happened. It was challenging on almost every level. My faith was tested, my hormones were tested, my stamina was tested, my patience was tested, my ability to lead was tested, my abiity to listen was tested, my finances were tested and my confidence was tested. I would say that by August, I was done with the tests, I wanted to move forward instead of being a 3-wheeled shopping cart going 'round in circles not getting anywhere. The enthusiasm I had on December 31st was long gone. I had to stop allowing the challenges to intimidate me and not just talk about raising my standards and expectations but really do it.
So, what did I do?
1. I started excercising--every day (I've lost 27 pounds too)
2. I started eating better--I had already given up caffiene two years prior, now I am eating better and drinking (alcohol) less
3. I changed doctors--just because you've been with someone a long time, doesn't mean they're right for you through every phase of your life
4. I stopped allowing things I can't control to get to me. If someone judges me for something I can't control it's their problem not mine.
5. I read. Sometimes breaking out of funk is as simple as looking at things from another's perspective
6. I prayed. I really prayed. I prayed for clairity, patience and understanding.
7. I softened my tone. Not so amazingly, my husband and kids responded in kind.
8. I laugh at myself...'cause when I think about it, I am really a character.
9. I enjoy the quiet of my own company...I always have and had to remember that.
10. I approach the things I have to do passionately because I am a passionate person.
So, now it is a year later. I am ready to retire 2009, and am glad that it didn't totally kick my tuchus; I prevailed. I am looking forward to 2010 with hope and joy. The CD whose title took last year's inspiration as its name is now out and I hope to bring others along for a great ride in the coming months.
Happy and Healthy New Year to all!