Every time I go home for the holidays I am reminded how much we are shaped by our environment. I am also reminded that we can overcome that environment. I am reminded of things that I have let go. I am also reminded of a few things that I have hung on to. Holiday homecomings can become in-your-face, I AM and I DECIDE moments. I love the family that I was given, but I am also thankful for the choices I have been able to make moving forward. My kids often remark how much my brother Jon and I sound alike. Clearly our home environment has shaped many aspects of who my brother and I are. We are similar in many ways, some good and some, well, not so good. But we are also very different. We made different choices, we made different decisions, which means although we are brothers, we are also individuals. No one can live your IDEAL life but you. Even if you are a twin.
I hope you decide to pick up a copy of the full book and reflect on the various exercises it contains from time to time, especially if you feeling lost or overwhelmed as you journey through life. At the very least, stand in front of a mirror and say to yourself.
- I AM…the sum total of my choices, my experiences, and my environment.
- I DECIDE…the path I will follow and how I will respond to life.
- I EVOLVE…to stay relevant in a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable world.
- I ADVANCE…by honing my skills and being the best I can be.
- I LET GO…of past hurts, failures, and negative experiences in order to move forward.
I don’t know your dreams. I don’t know your IDEAL path, but I encourage you to begin your journey today. Let me remind you one last time: I want you to live your life, and I want you to love the life you live.
This holiday season I am sharing 12 short holiday posts to help you and yours get through this season with a little bit of joy and happiness intact. Many find the holiday season warm and inviting, but others get caught up in the hype of the season and even fall into the envy trap of comparing our lives to the lives of others. I would encourage you to create your own traditions and norms this time of the year. Don’t worry if the activities of your family or friends don’t match those of others. Be happy and define what works for you and yours.
Want more? Order a copy of my book on Amazon. It makes a great stocking stuffer, and it may just help someone you love or care for start living their IDEAL life.