Lessons Learned in 2010

The year is fresh and hopeful. I'm still busy drafting my official resolutions, but first things first... here's my list of lessons learned in 2010, in no particular order...

1. I've learned from experience that you don't have to travel to the other side of the world to find yourself. If you can't find you at home, you're likely chasing an impostor.

2. Taking a sabbatical from your life as a mom isn't selfish, and it certainly isn't easy. Making the effort for an hour, week, or (gasp!) month away will teach your children the importance of self-care and help them deepen relationships with other caregivers.

3.  Never assume to know what anyone else is thinking. If you're not sure, ask. Then repeat what they said back to make sure you got it right.

4.  Enjoy the present moment. Don't spend too much time mulling over the past or fretting the future. When you need to feel connected or centered, just stop and listen to your breath.

5.  Personal trainers aren't just for the rich and unmotivated. Hearing an encouraging voice directed solely at you, pushing you on, is akin to good psychotherapy.

6.  Change isn't so bad...  but regret is. You can spend years contemplating change and learn nothing. Give it a try and you'll either recommit to what you had or enjoy the fruits of change.

7.  People can and will say and do things that surprise you for the better. Take time to listen to what other people have to say--especially those the closest to you. Sometimes we don't listen to the voices we hear most often.

8.  People can and will say and do things that surprise you for the worse. Listen to what others have to say, but be careful not to turn your disappointment in others back on yourself.

9.  Usually when people surprise you it's about them, not you. Everyone has baggage that they have no choice but to carry. When someone does or says something that seems out of left field or offensive, remember you can never know exactly what it's like to be them.

10.  When pursuing a dream, never give up. Period.