What Means the World to You?

This week I had to take some time to reflect and think about what means the world to me.  What means the world to you?  That's an interesting question because it really makes you think.

When I think about this question, the first thing that instantly takes over my mind is family.  These are the people that have always stood by my side through whatever.  These are the people that love me unconditionally.  And even when they are mad at me, they still love me.  I know they would never turn their backs on me because they have always been there for me.  This is my close knit family and the loved ones I have invited to join my family.  These are the people that know my personality, my secrets, my quirks...they know me.

Next, I think about my friends...not just any acquaintances, but the friends that I've let get so close to me that I consider them family.  The friends that no matter how much distance or time is between us, when we talk, we effortlessly pick up where we left off.  It's the people that are just being themselves and it meshes so easily with me while I'm just being myself.  My friends are the ones that make you laugh uncontrollably and make you feel like a kid again.  The ones that can connect with me mentally and understand how I feel.  The ones that took the time to learn how to make me feel better.  The ones that give so much and expect nothing in return.

Then, I think about my priorities and see that family and friends are at the top of my list.  So, I wonder why has it been so long since I've spoken to family and friends.  I try to reach out occasionally, but that sounds weird to me.  If these are my top priorities, why am I letting lesser priorities have the majority of my time?

Sometimes it takes that time to reflect to see how you have veered off path.  Maybe you're not completely off track, just a little off track.  Either way, it still helps to reflect because if you're a little of track now, it may become a lot later if it goes unnoticed.

There are 2 parts to this puzzle.  The first is knowing what means the world to you.  The second is taking the appropriate actions for what means the world to you.

Shine Like a Diamond

Shine Like a Diamond

When it comes to life, I want to shine like a diamond.  I have so much belief in myself.  I don't think anything is beyond my reach.  I know that no matter what I accomplish, I did and will not accomplish it alone.  I had help from parents that loved me, pushed me when needed, and gave me freedom to make my own choices when needed.  I had help from siblings that showed me other perspectives for situations.  I have friends that have offered helping hands so I could achieve my goals.    I have friends that engage me in meaningful conversations to help me grow and learn.  I have someone special in my corner that believes in me and encourages me.  They all helped me shine like a diamond.  That's the loving side.  I have past bosses that showed me how not to lead.  I have past bosses that were tough on me and pushed me to be better.    I have "Dream Killers" that told me I couldn't do something.  A few times, I was a "Dream Killer" and told myself I couldn't accomplish something.  Boy, was I wrong!  It took the support of loved ones and the toughness to help me shine.  I have learned that sometimes great things fall in your lap, but also, there are many times when you have to work extremely hard to achieve your goals.  I will enjoy the simple paths but won't shy away from the difficult paths.  Both paths are required to get to the top.  I know that in the end, I will get there and I will shine like a diamond!

The Light

I think it's only fair that I tell you about how my life changed after my bad year.  First of all, I can't say it was a completely bad year.  I didn't completely know it at the time, but towards the end of that year, I met the love of my life.  I didn't have a lot of friends but I did have a couple of really good friends to help me when I was down.  I was down, but not out.  I was devastated after my Grandma's death.  I thought I never did anything with my life to really make her proud of me.  It also made me realize how short life can be.  After the storm, I rose with a new fire in my heart and a positive outlook.  I knew my Grandma was watching from above  and I decided to give her a good show.  With the attitude change, everything else began to change.  I lost weight, work got better, and I got the promotion I wanted.  It didn't happen overnight but I made it through the dark to get back to the light.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Hello to everyone that's tuning in.  Today is a day when most of us enjoy a much needed day off.  No sitting in traffic during your daily commute or any other work hassles.  It's a day that we don't worry about the politics of the world.  We can just relax and enjoy good food and good company.  Don't forget to take the time out to think about who and what you are thankful for.  Enjoy the time off and share it with your friends and family.  Happy Thanksgiving everyone!