As women, we want it all, don’t we? We take classes and read self-help books to be more successful, to find ways to be happier, to learn how to chase our dreams. They tell us we can have it all, so we’ll do whatever it takes to ensure we get there.
The problem becomes: what is “there” anyway? How will we know when we arrive? What will we achieve once we reach the final destination?
I say that with a touch of irony because after all, there really isn’t a final destination. We know that “destinations” change all the time. When you get your “perfect” job, it doesn’t take too long before you start discovering tiny things that aren’t quite the perfect fit. The perfect partner - yep, he has some annoying habits that drive you crazy.
We all know it’s about the journey, not the destination. Turns out that adage is true.
And the journey becomes even more fulfilling when you put your best self forward. Not sure what that means?
Your best self is the person you most like to be. It’s the person you are most comfortable with. The person you are when you let your hair down and just be.
You know that person, right? Need to find her again? Ask these questions to help you identify her and keep her close each day.
How does your best self treat you?
Yep, you’re the most important one in this equation. Because if you’re not the best you, you don’t have the best to give the world. Your best self needs things: good food, exercise, a great night’s sleep. She knows the difference between work and play, and prioritizes to bring as much balance to her life as she can.
How does your best self treat others?
Your best self is always present, listening to those around you, offering the best you have to give in each situation. Your best self chooses the best people to be around and is conscious of giving them what they need to be important in her life.
How does your best self spend her time?
Your best self doesn’t do things for others because she’s always done it in the past. She’s learned how to say no. She’s learned to choose things selectively because they mean something to her. She selects things to do that are close to her heart.
Who helps you be the best self you can be?
We’ve all stuck with relationships that are “too much” simply because we didn’t know how to walk away. Your best self chooses the people around her carefully, knowing she can have more of her best self if she selects carefully. Who encourages? Who shares? Who cares?
Who do you want your best self to be?