As we embark on a new year, it is a natural time to examine your life, both personally and professionally. For many, it is also a natural time to reflect on the past year. I will always look back on 2015 as a time of tremendous personal growth. There have been many amazing moments, too numerous to mention, but I can pinpoint two things that have been the catalysts for me that changed the course of my year and brought me to this very moment.
The first moment: One day, I was talking with my friend and co-worker, Susan. I was feeling very overwhelmed with how busy I was with work and I was feeling guilty about the time it was taking away from my family. Having worked closely together for many years, she knew better than anyone how committed I was to delivering results for my employer at the expense of an unhealthy work-life balance. She looked at me and said “No one is going to stand over your grave and say ‘What a good employee you were. They are going to talk about what kind of mother, wife and friend you were.’ “
Susan’s words of wisdom are something that I hang on to as a constant reminder that it is the relationships with the people I love that matter most. I’m feeling very nostalgic because I just spent two wonderful weeks being with family and friends, and it is the exact reason why I look forward to the holiday season. It is such a precious time, because even briefly, it allows us to slow down and be together. These are the times that somehow magically erase all the days that have been spent apart. I hope that you had the opportunity to reconnect with loved ones, even if it was through a card or phone call.
The second moment: In the very beginning of 2015, I was facing a major decision. It was just days before I clicked the button to officially publish my very first blog post and once that happened, I knew there was no turning back. I could continue with my career in Corporate America or take a risk. Again, it was some words of wisdom that pushed me in the right direction. I came across this quote by motivational speaker, Tony Gaskins that had a profound impact on me “If you don’t build your dreams, someone will hire you to help build theirs.” I was putting all my time and energy into doing something that I liked, but really didn’t love. My biggest learning in 2015 was to get out of my comfort zone and take risks so I could do what I love.
I wonder what your plans and hopes and dreams are for 2016. As for me, I am beyond excited for the lofty goals I have planned for Connecticut in Style and I’m super excited to share them with you throughout the year. Thank you for your continued support, it means the world to me.
