Living Forwards

"Life can only be understood backwards; 

but it must be lived forwards." ~ Soren Kierkegaard

Shocking.  I just happened to take a look at this neglected blog and saw that I haven't shared anything in nine months!

It's not that nothing has been going on.  It has, in fact, been a very full and rich year so far -- just not what I expected and sometimes difficult to put into words.  So I haven't!  Instead I have been busily living my life and often pondering what it is that I need to be learning along the way.

I think it was John Lennon who said "Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans."  My plan for this "golden orbit" was to be very intentional about cultivating gratitude in my life and sharing all that I want to celebrate.  Instead, I have found myself spending a lot of energy dealing with curveballs that I haven't always known how to celebrate -- much less share.

The main "curveballs" haven't been horrible or lift-threatening, but they were life-altering because they have required adjustments to my habits or plans.  For example, some allergic reactions have led me make significant dietary changes.  Policies related to the work that I do have led me to alter the course of my business development.  Shifting work and family responsibilities have affected how my husband and I negotiate day-to-day management of our household.  

Here are a few lessons that have been reinforced for me so far.

1. Be flexible -- It's great to have dreams, intentions, and goals but sometimes (often) life presents surprises.  If I can't bend, I'm likely to break.
2. Put first things first -- Give my greatest focus to the areas of my life that are my highest priorities.
3. Remember that there are many paths to the same objective -- The specifics of a plan aren't as important as the end objective.  When I run into roadblocks, it is an opportunity to be curious and determine it another strategy might be more appropriate.
4. Practice letting go --  When I am feeling overwhelmed, it is an opportunity to ask myself "What can I let go of that is not serving me and my calling?"
5. Look for the gold --  Even when I am uncomfortable, I have an opportunity to consider how situations are allowing me to grow and learn.

It's only two more months until the completion of this "orbit".  Who knows what other adventures and growth opportunities are still ahead?!

An important reminder in times of change...