Things I Know For Sure
There's nothing like turning a year older that makes you pause and take stock of life. When I was a little girl, my mom had a book called "Living A Beautiful Life" by Alexandra Stoddard. I remember how enamored I was by the book. I can barely recall the contents of the book now but I do remember it was my first encounter with someone telling a reader to create rituals in living. I remember how I copiously took notes from the book in my binder, labelling them "Grace Notes" as the author had called her inspirational nuggets of wisdom.
At 41, I'd like to share a list of things I know for sure - my very own Grace Notes.
1. Do one thing at a time. In this attention-hungry economy, fight the urge to attend to it all lest we spread ourselves too thin.
2. Say "yes" to things that will make life more adventurous, intentional, and beautiful...
3. ...and know when to gracefully say "no". Be aware of your boundaries and know when to let go.
4. It's perfectly fine to have a small circle of trusted friends.
5. Home is family. Family is home.
6. Learning never stops. Keep investing in yourself.
7. Always bring a book wherever you go. Reading is always a more productive choice when having to wait for a ride or at the dentist. If you are alone, a book is always good company.
8. Forgive yourself.
9. Drink lots of water.
10. Spend money on making memories rather than acquiring things.
11. Live with intention. Make sure that whatever you are spending your time, money, and energy on is what you have actively chosen to have in your life, as Jamie Varon said in her book Radically Content.
12. Let go of the need for control.
13. Trust the timing of your life.
14. Have a grateful heart. Contentment and peace of mind will follow naturally.
15. Never feel guilty about taking breaks.
I hope at least one of these resonated with you and I encourage you to keep a list for yourself. I keep this list in my planner so I can be reminded of them often enough. In the year ahead and beyond, I am looking forward to adding to this list and sharing all the things I know for sure. After all, we arrive at happiness a little faster when we care enough to share.
