Out of my way, Happiness-I’m out for Joy!

You know that feeling when you reach the 3rd quarter and hindsight makes it pretty clear as to what worked and what did not….Well, it seems like I feel that way today, especially as heading into a new year and a new decade. I’ve lived through the ‘60s through today, that means I’m heading into my 7th decade. Yikes! Can this be true? Well, my friends, it certainly is, and I can tell you exactly what has and has not worked out so far in this life, but that’s another discussion! :)

It’s interesting, though, as I sit here and think upon what 2020 might look like and what I hope to accomplish in this next decade. Not to sound trite or cliché, but I feel this will be a real turning point on so many levels. And, to put it bluntly, we need a turning point. I recently read The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho and Active Hope by Chris Johnstone and Joanna Macy back to back. I encourage anyone to invest the time this year to read these two books. No spoiler alert here. I’ll leave it at that and you can write back to me with your thoughts.

I saw this Emerson quote recently and it really struck a chord. Living well means different things to different people, but in this case, it’s about being useful, honorable, and compassionate. Happiness is just a state of being. A moment in time. Let’s go for joy, the emotion from well-being and satisfaction from who we are. Ah, yes, that’s where it’s at.

I’ve written previously about the fallacy of finding one’s passion. There is a lot of emphasis on this and you may simply need to home in on what brings you satisfaction, joy, a sense of accomplishment, and purpose. What is it that you bring to the table that is of value, but also lights your fire? If you haven’t found it, it will likely find you…. just have your eyes open to see it.

2020 suggests a clear view and as we all know, hindsight is 2020. It’s easy to see into the past, but it’s rewarding to create that vision to the future. It’s not going to be a 2020 vision but remember the focus can shift as it becomes clearer into view. That’s the point and that’s where your actions can influence the outcome. Do something every day that gets you an inch, a foot, or a mile closer to that future.

As someone in Q3 of life, I can say this has worked. There is a sign in my office that reads: Dreams don’t work unless you do. There’s a lot of truth there. EnJOY the ride!

Healthy, honorable, compassionate, and purposeful New Year to you all!

Deidre