So recently at work, as part of our big brand re-development, we’ve been doing a lot of searching. Searching for the reasons why we do what we do, what exactly we want to be doing, and how we going to do that…as part of that process we’ve also been dedicating time each day to figuring out or own aspriations too. As part of this I’ve been jorunalling every day and also getting out into nature more regularly too. This is a little recap, to remind myself (and anyone else who finds it useful) that, as Anne Frank once said;
“How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.”
Finding Happiness in Everyday Moments; Returning to nature has been a revelation to me, reigniting a sense of joy that had long lay dormant. The simple act of hiking through the hills and immersing myself in the coldest water I can find has become a source of genuine contentment.
Each morning I wake up early, walk the dogs, make myself breakfast & coffee, make myself comfy, put on some music and reflect on the previous day. There are some days I don’t have anything to write, obviously…but I still take the time for my own reflections. I find myself growing closer to friends who share my love for adventure and understand the journey I’ve been through, while also acknowledging the natural evolution of relationships that may lead us on separate paths.
Cultivating Fulfillment in Career and Personal Pursuits; Over the last 12 months I've discovered a sense of fulfillment through work that I never really knew was possible, the flexibility of having no official “office hours” also means that it extends seamlessly into my personal life. Working within a learning and development organisation has not only nurtured my professional growth but also enriched my overall lifestyle. This journey has shaped not just my career trajectory but also my daily routines and habits. Supported by colleagues who share my dedication, I've found a healthy balance that allows me to pursue both professional endeavors and personal passions with equal vigour. For the first time in my life I feel truly supported.
Working alongside some incredible facilitators I have learned so much about “self” and “awareness”. Central to my journey of self-discovery has been the cultivation of a positive mindset rooted in stoic principles. Embracing life's uncertainties, I've learned to find strength in adversity and wisdom in challenges. Through the adoption of healthier habits, both physically and mentally, I've experienced the profound impact of small victories in shaping my outlook on life. Each day offers a chance for growth, and I approach each with a sense of optimism and a commitment to personal betterment.
“Never write about a place until you’re away from it, because that gives you perspective.”
Harnessing Excitement for the Future; The fruits of perseverance are beginning to flourish, unveiling a world of exciting possibilities that once seemed distant dreams. What once felt like lofty aspirations now appear within reach, fueling a sense of excitement and purpose for the journey ahead. With each step forward, I am filled with anticipation for the adventures that await, confident in my ability to turn dreams into reality. We talk a lot about “noticing” and how important this is in both work and life; this is one of the most important lessons I’ve learned in the last 12 months, to continually assess and reassess realities, ambitions and the path to achieve them. We have restructured plans continually with a broader goal in mind. We share a collective vision, and I feel a part of that, not just a cog in the machine.
Through this I find a real solace in the clarity of purpose that guides my actions. Through regular self-reflection, I reaffirm my commitment to aligning my daily pursuits with my values and aspirations. By taking a proactive approach to life, I navigate its ups and downs with a sense of resilience and inner strength.
Embracing Life's Challenges with Optimism; Life is a journey filled with both joy and adversity, and I embrace each experience with open arms and a hopeful heart.
Through moments of vulnerability and discomfort, I discover the true essence of authenticity and resilience.
By understanding myself more deeply, I embrace life's challenges with a sense of optimism and purpose. I have learned to enjoy the smaller things in life without letting go of the big dreams.
Every day I set myself goals, I’ not perfect, nobody is, but every day I strive to be better than I was yesterday, to progress, to develop, to grow. and that’s the part that matters. Here are two of my favourite quotes to close, both about life and it’s progression, pushing you to live more meaningfully and fulfilled;
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the things you did.”
“We have two lives, and the second begins when we realize we only have one.”
Till next time. Ol