Three (life-changing) things I learned this month

I’ve been thinking a lot about where I want to take this space. Some days I spin out trying to think of how to narrow down or create my “niche” because you constantly hear that’s how you’ll gain an audience. But at the end of the day, I started it for me - to document my life, continue my passion for writing, and constantly remind me to seek beauty in the everyday. I hope along the way it inspires readers, too.

This past month brought some challenges that forced me to reflect and rethink. I have also been struggling for some time with my new role as a stay-at-home wife and solo creator. But in the midst of these challenges, I confided in those I love/respect and found inspiration that helped me find some clarity. I wanted to share here for anyone who may need to hear it.

Purpose

Your purpose is not defined by one thing.

I was always a career-driven woman. Independent. Hell, I moved 3,000 mi away from home on my own to make something of myself. And I did. Time and time again, I followed my next goal in the corporate world. Yet after some time, I found I longed for something with more purpose.

While many may envy or not fully understand where my path has led, I had the opportunity to leave a corporate career and figure out what was next - so I took it. My husband has always been my biggest fan pushing me to continue writing and discovering what lights me up. I’m so fortunate to be building a life with someone I love.

And life is more than a career or any one thing. It is about how you show up in the world. But it has taken me years of reflection to realize this; and honestly, it’s still hard for me to grasp.

I came across the Tiny Buddha site recently searching for some inspiration and this passage really spoke to me.

No one job can define my purpose. No one choice, or label, or career can be my purpose.

Purpose cannot be defined by one thing. Purpose is a choice that I make every day. A choice about how I show up in the world.

But following your passion might not manifest as a career at first. Because purpose is more than a job.

It’s a way of living.

Invest in yourself

Investing in yourself is never a waste of time or money.

Investing in yourself can mean a number of things. It could mean finding time for hobbies, yoga, fitness, reading, taking a class, etc. It also could be starting therapy or working with a personal coach. I worked with a coach during my last career transition, and we have been working together ever since. Sometimes I question whether or not it’s worth it. But as I’ve leaned in, I found it has really helped me to find perspective or push me to try things I otherwise may not have. It’s like having an accountability buddy that’s invested in your success! Self-care is another big one. It’s certainly becoming sort of a trend, but I’ve always been one for routines and finding time to stay grounded. Find what works for you. Experiment with new things or simplify so that it’s attainable. The more we find balance for ourselves, the better we can show up for others.

Challenges

Life will always throw you challenges but you're already equipped to deal with them.

This is something I’m constantly reminding myself. If you’ve ever read the Law of Attraction, then you may subscribe to the notion that we already possess what we need to go after our dreams. I do believe this but in the face of challenges or loss, it can be difficult to push through.

To find my inner strength again, I often have to take some time to reflect. It could be journaling, talking to a friend, taking a drive, revisiting photos from a happy time. I’ve seen a lot about gratitude or “uplift lists” recently and thinking now might be a great time to start one.

What has life taught you lately?