A group of friends recently shared their thoughts on “What I Know for Sure.” This task, based on Oprah’s essays and so on, was a pleasant challenge.
I jotted mine down in quick scribbles. Nothing really took too much thought. I just did 20 in no particular order. Most of them are pretty basic. There was some head-nodding as we shared at the dinner table. Here’s the list I shared:
1.) The most important approval in my life is my own.
2.) I feel better when I move first thing in the morning.
3.) I can do without way more than I imagined (e.g., cheese)
4.) The main thing I can control is my own choices.
5.) Focusing on what I can control eases my anxiety.
6.) Bring food, a book, and something to do with you.
7.) I can provide guidance, but walking the walk and being an example is the most powerful, grounding thing I can do for others and myself.
8.) I can’t expect anyone else to prioritize my physical, mental, and emotional health – that’s my job. They also may not understand what prioritizing those things look like. That’s also not my problem.
9.) Garbage in, garbage out – reading, media, food, all of it.
10.) Most people are doing the best they can based on what they know and are capable of at a given time.
11.) Play is important at every age. Laughter is, too.
12.) Local places beat chains.
13.) If it’s worth it, go for it.
14.) Nature heals, redeems, centers and grounds.
15.) Writing matters.
16.) Dogs are amazing and make most of the people in my life happier than other people do.
17.) Most things that seem like a big deal really aren’t that serious.
18.) To be on time, leave at least 15 minutes before you think you should. Always leave a buffer.
19.) Time and attention are the most precious gifts we can give other people.
20.) Thank people often for things big and small.
Most of this stuff is not groundbreaking. What I marvel at is how my list would have changed from even 5 years ago. I didn’t work out in the morning. I was beset with anxiety most of the time. I didn’t spend much time outdoors. I didn’t write for myself. I didn’t like dogs. Life is changing. I am changing. If my list stays the same, have I really learned or grown? What will the next 5 years bring?
I have a number of friends who are on the cusp of this time of great change with me. It’s wonderful to share such an exciting and transformational time with people. Instead of a stumbling, fumbling block it can be a launch pad.
What do you know for sure, right now?
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