As we travel this journey called life, we are shaped and molded in different ways. During childhood significant people guided us and gave us values. And as we grow and make choices on our own we begin to discover who we really are as a person. We learn to decipher between what we like, what we want, and what we really need. And these can morph and change with time. But at the core of it all is someone we all need to know and like. Ourselves. We need to be comfortable in our own skin so that when those decisions come, we can be sure to make the best one. And every now and then, there are experiences that will test those core values. We can let them either break us or make us.
In the past 6 months to a year, my life turned upside down literally. You can’t get more upside down than moving to the opposite side of the world with a 12.5 hour time difference. And though I say it was life-changing, in reality it was life reaffirming. It made me take a close look at who I am and what is really important to me. Here are a few:
Simplicity is key. The basics is all I really need - comfortable clothing, a safe “haven” to live and food to share with others. I don’t need a lot of “stuff” or any bling to go with it all.
Family and friends are crucial. My family is very large. They have been my unfailing support in so many ways all of my life. But there is also this wonderful group of friends I have with whom I can share moments, feelings and food. All of these people have helped me become a better version of myself. And for this I am forever grateful.
Alone time is a must. I like to be with people but they also overwhelm me. Interacting with people drains my soul and I need quiet alone time to recharge whether it’s going for a walk in nature, reading a book or working on a creative project.
Variety and adventure add some spice. Routine is necessary for me to be able to accomplish anything. And I love to spend time at my home. But I also need a little adventure and variety thrown in or else I get bored. This is why you will see different projects in various stages strewn around my house. Or I’ll act on that idea to move across the globe. (Blame that on those Gypsy roots I’m sure I have.) But whatever it is, I simply need a break from the mundane.
Spirituality is vital. Although it’s listed last, this is probably the most important. Focusing on this aspect in my life has been my anchor throughout all the years. It’s what has kept me sane when things around me spiral out of control.
My list can go on with things that I feel are necessary to me but the point of it is this: In these stressful and uncertain times, it’s important to know who and what we really need in our life. Once we figure out this, then we can base our decisions on these values, which will lead to a happier, healthy life. Have you thought about this? Let me know what makes you tick in the comments below.