Changing Things One Step at a Time

I thought taking a break from work and deciding what I really wanted from a career was the one thing I needed to change. It’s only now that I realise that there are more things that I needed to change in my life. The thing is, life is constantly changing. We’re constantly changing. Our needs. Our wants. Our desires. So as far as I can tell we have two simple options. Reach a constant and accept this is life for the next 50 years. Or. Actively look for change and really live.

As you know, in 2016 I’d got myself into just existing. Nothing to complain about. But I wasn’t really living. I’d created a comfortable habit. The problem was life for me wasn’t interesting anymore. It was nice. I knew I had to change things. And this began with leaving my job.

This new freedom allowed me to explore new things. What I’ve since discovered is that certain elements in my life need tweaking. And if all are balanced then life is good.

Work
I want to work. I want to have a career. And I know that if I’m going to feel fulfilled intellectually I must be working. I like being involved in lots of different projects. It keeps me on my toes. I like having my own projects to manage as well as helping others. I may not have hit my stride yet but the pieces are slowly falling into place.

Mind and Body
We all know that exercise is good for our bodies. For a long time, I wasn’t really doing any. Then I joined the local ladies gym. Not only does it have a fab atmosphere but I definitely feel the difference. Then earlier this year I started kickboxing martial arts. Which has had an even bigger impact. It’s definitely an intense workout plus I really enjoy the discipline that comes with it.

However, that’s just half of it.

What became glaringly obvious at the end of last year was that I’d neglected to look after my mind. My mental wellbeing. I thought working for someone else was stressful. Working for myself has its own mental challenges. If I’m going to be successful I need to make sure I’m taking care of me mentally.

I haven’t quite cracked this one but I’ve started. I now have a simple morning routine to get me ready for the day. I have a simple nighttime routine to help me wind down. This is not enough. It’s a token gesture. So I’m still working on it.

Relationships
We have so many different types of relationships in our lives. Family, friends, partners, children, work etc. Some that build us up. Others that drain us of energy and are hard work. We all know people who always see things as glass half empty. The only relationships I want in my life are those that make me happy. Life is too short and time is too precious. So I’ve focused more on those relationships that fill my heart with joy.