Early Morning Ramblings

No matter how hard you work, there’s always going to be at least one, usually many more, that are not satisfied. I think that it’s safe to say that this is the norm, no matter what line of work you’re in. Depending on the day, and especially the line of work you’re in, there’s times where it appears that the vast majority can only provide criticism, both constructive and not…and it can be down right exhausting. It’s hard not to take it personal, especially if your work is something that you are extremely passionate about. You’re putting in countless hours, making sacrifices and shooting for perfection only to be met by at least one person every.single.time to leave you feeling as if it’s just not enough. You missed the mark just slightly. It was good, but ______. That may be my favorite kind – starting with a positive and then immediately negating it with the infamous but making you immediately forget any positive vibes that were about to take over.

It’s a constant battle of trying to focus on the good feedback you receive and those that take the time to reach out to show encouragement and support. The ones that understand that things aren’t perfect, and probably never will be, but can at least appreciate that there’s most likely a big picture or a master plan to justify the why. It’s not supposed to be rainbows and butterflies day in and day out, but when there’s always a cloud in front of the sun, you almost forget that the light IS still there.

The individuals that are perceived decision makers are, more often times than not, being held accountable for a number of unknown factors that people are unaware of. Of course, everyone has varying goals, expectations, wants and needs. The tone in which they communicate these things to others, along with the forum in which they choose to do so, can really start to make or break the people involved. Progress can be small, and slow, but any progress is still allowing for a stride or two to be taken in the “right” direction.

All of that being said, when money and success are directly impacted, it’s impossible to not want to speak up, go to bat for and do whatever you need to do to get yourself and those that rely on you, to where you need to be. We live in a world that everything is instantaneous. We jump to conclusions, often respond immediately and our days are filled with nonstop multitasking. Go go go – it’s the way of the world. Even before we’ve had the chance to enjoy our meal we’re already thinking about dessert.

It’s hard to take our own advice, practice what we preach and not live a hypocritical life. Every once in a while, if we could take a step back and SLOW down, we may rethink pressing send on that text or email. Maybe before forming an opinion on something or someone we try to see things from their point of view and understand where they are coming from and what is causing them to feel and act a certain way.

No one likes to feel defeated. We shouldn’t expect that everything we do in life is always going to be positively received or be easy. If it was, that too, could limit creativity and progression. We shouldn’t get too comfortable. Always strive for more for yourself and those that surround you. If you can, surround yourself with those that will build you up, while providing you with honest and constructive advice. The ones that are your biggest fans, but find a way to be your biggest critic without destroying you or your momentum.

I’m lucky to have a lot of people in my life that have no problem giving me a bit of a reality check when I need one, but at the same time provide love and support to make me want to keep going. I have no problem overworking and making sacrifices for the things and people that I love. When those things and people are involved it’s challenging to not let emotions take over. Don’t lose your passion. Don’t forget why you started. Some days (or weeks or months) will be better than others. Don’t let the negativity get the best of you. No matter how bad things get there’s always going to be some good in every situation. It may be hard to find and often disguised, but trust me it’s there.

So today, before you speak that negative thought, write a bad review, angrily email customer service, go on a social media rant, call your friend to complain… find something nice to say, write a review on something you loved instead, send a positive email, share a great story or a photo of a puppy, call someone to tell them you love them…. and I will do the same.

They’re not puppies, but maybe at least one of these will bring a smile or smirk to your face…

I was Britney ’07 before it was even a thing. 

Me, most days.

Also me, most days.

…still me.

My #1 fan and her mini me… and one who isn’t afraid to give me a reality check. PS – serious arm goals. 

Preach.

C’mon, just trust me. This will be fun. We’re in this together. Watch how I do this.

Don’t. Watch. How. I. Do. This.

Hope your week is off to a great start and that it continues to go well…if not, there’s still chance to turn this week around.  Hey, last chance to make a good impression on January 😉