For many years, I focused incredible amounts of energy on making changes. If anything was made apparent in 2020, it was the simple fact that change happens regardless of my focus and that I will find a way to deal with it in order to live my best life. During the year, this goal became increasingly clear as I discovered that on any given day, I might need to change my changes!
With all that has happened that has been totally beyond my control, I took the opportunity to reexamine key parts of my thought process and how what I think helps me get through rough times. I came up with some questions to ask myself:
- Am I willing to try new things and do differently?
- Am I willing to stand up for what I believe in a respectful manner?
- Am I making every effort to live my best life each day?
- Am I seeking solutions instead of excuses?
- What am I willing to give and expect to receive from others?
- Who really has my back, and who is a secret saboteur?
During these months of restricted socialization, each interaction is much more important. Also, acknowledging self-worth and practicing self-care are critical to maintaining a positive attitude each day. When put to the test, we find that we are often stronger than we think and how important a true support network is in living one’s best life.
There is a song by Kelly Clarkson called “Unbreakable” that I stumbled upon while driving to visit a family member that echoes these thoughts. Let’s not waste time dwelling on who or what we cannot change. Instead, let’s focus on making the very best of all the good in our lives each and every day. Letting go of negativity is liberating.
I invite you to join me in my daily practice of exercises:
- Pick one new thing and try it.
- Pick a small act of kindness to share with a stranger. (Even a smile counts.)
- Pick a task and get it done.
- Praise a friend for being just that.
- Go outside and move as best you can. Then sit quietly and listen to the world.
- Repeat.
I Care, Barb
By Sandra WILSON February 18, 2021
Thanks Barb for your words of encouragement.
By Pearl Moll February 18, 2021
Thank you so much for sharing the wisdom that time brings into our lives. Tears are okay to wash away the sad moments as long as we can let the sun shine in after the storm.
Everyday is a gift that God gives us. Life is not all good, but there are rainbows after the storms. There is beauty to behold if we keep our eyes open. A babies smile, a joke shared, and an unexpected kindness, each one can be a reminder that if we look for what is good we will find it. Find the joy in each day and share it with someone. That is what you do for us Barbara. Thank You
By Maimie Parker February 16, 2021
I was on the “Virtual Retreat” this weekend with Ashley Fizer, and so much of what you are stating was talked about at this Retreat!
It made me ‘Suck back & reload!… and start again!!! It’s time to change!!! “
By Margo Bouchard February 16, 2021
Thank you for your time and insight.
By Sylvia Duncan February 16, 2021
Right on target, as usual, Barb.Thank you for good insights in this changing world.
By Cathy Schlung February 15, 2021
This was very inspiring, It comes at a great time.. thank you Barb
By Janet Long February 15, 2021
Thank you for helping me with new ideas. This really gets me to thinking more positive in a negative world. With all that we have been through this past year it”s good to read positive again. Thank you for sharing these ideas with us. Be safe.
By Anne Mulhern February 15, 2021
Loved this; maybe it just spoke to me at the right time, but after a year of dread and bad news, this speaks of hope and empowerment. Thank you!