Watching out for #1

There are many of us in this world that seek to be positive and make others happy.  What could be wrong with this?  For the most part, nothing.  This is actually a great way to be - sharing good vibes and putting positive energy out in the universe.  However, there is something you need to watch for - and this applies to everyone - always watch out for #1.  And you know who that is?  YOU!

Personally this was a struggle for me - I didn't want to be selfish but making sure you are healthy in all aspects of life - physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually - requires you to take care of yourself just like you take care of others.  There is a difference between self care and selfishness.  Remember this!  Self care is how we become the best version of ourselves.  And if you thought you shared love, happiness and positive vibes before - just you wait to see what you can do!

In my opinion, the most difficult decisions to make around this are who you allow in your life and in what context.  Just because someone is related to you by blood does not mean they are family or have your best interests at heart.  I won't repeat it but read that sentence again, as often as you need to in order to fully understand!  Those who truly love you and want what is best for you will support and encourage you to be the best person that you can no matter what.  The ones who get upset with you bettering yourself are those who realize you are setting boundaries and they will not benefit from these.  I am personally watching someone I love go through this - being manipulated and lied to for years and allowing it to happen because it's his son.  It breaks my heart because I see the pain and heartache he is having over the whole situation but he is struggling to just severe ties.  Don't ever let someone make you feel like you owe them anything - you don't (well unless you had some type of pre-agreement or contract but you know what I am speaking about)!  Just be the best person you can be and surround yourself with like minded people who want you to be the best you can be!

"Letting go means to come to the realization that some people are a part of your history, but not a part of your destiny." ~Steve Maraboli

Simple IS Good!

This past Christmas, my mom gave me a daily calendar with positive quotes and encouragement.  I love it!  It is probably one of my best presents I have received and I have daily quotes hanging all around my cubicle and office to share with others.  Monday's (which I meant to post about then...) was "Simple is Good".  And you know what?  I couldn't agree more!  I mean when it comes to almost everything in life, isn't it better when it's simple?  Relationships, work, running errands, putting together furniture, fixing things around the house...the list could go on.  But what I initially thought when I read that statement was regarding how we live life.  Too much focus is on what we have or think we need.  The newest fad, electronic device, clothes, house, car, etc.  Why can't we just be happy with the simple things?  Somewhere along the line we were taught that material things are what show status and that matters.  If you don't have the best and newest of everything, you must not have the means to buy these things, right?  In the big scheme of things, what does having these things really do for you?  Can you take them with you when you leave this earth?  Will your loved ones be saying "Whew, I am so glad I inherited this TV instead of memories"?  I don't think so.

In the past, I too always thought I needed to have things in my life to make me happy but they don't, at least not permanently.  You may feel some excitement and happiness when you first obtain something but after several months, does it still bring you joy?  What if you had spent that several hundreds dollars experiencing something instead?  Traveling somewhere you have never been or learning a new skill or trade.  Memories and knowledge are two things that can never be taken from you by another person and you will always have them.  And these can be shared for generations to come.  So the next time you see that new gadget really think to yourself is it worth it, or would you rather stick to the simple life and be able to just enjoy life and all that is out there to explore?  I know how I would rather spend my time and money...simple home and simple life full of unforgettable memories and experiences and no regrets or "what ifs".

 

"If you have nothing, then you have everything, because you have the freedom to do anything, without the fear of losing something." ~Jarod Kintz