Healthy Living For The Soul

The W Dilemma

After turning another year older I found myself sitting on the edge of a new decade and being reflective with some soul searching. In my younger years when I had a lifetime ahead of me, I made decisions for the long run. What about now? That “what” led me to other cautionary W’s to take into consideration: worry, wait and when.

After turning another year older I found myself sitting on the edge of a new decade and being reflective with some soul searching. In my younger years when I had a lifetime ahead of me, I made decisions for the long run. What about now? That “what” led me to other cautionary W’s to take into consideration: worry, wait and when.

In the past, I spent countless hours worrying and fretting over things; sometimes those things resolved themselves without requiring any effort on my part. Now, I turn to positive affirmations and reframing to overcome worry that only amounts to wasted energy. Here are a few sample affirmations: I release and let go of the outcome in this situation. No amount of worrying will make a difference. I trust and allow this situation to unfold, knowing that all is well.

I lived in Naples for almost 20 years and waited for out-oftown visitors so I could share local sites with them. Usually they chose the beach; who could blame them? When I moved away I realized I had missed experiencing some of the unique sites because I was waiting to share them with company. Now, I have a local bucket list of what I want to see and do in this area. Some are simple things like visiting Washington Oaks Park for the first time, after living in the area for almost 17 years. That was one of my birthday gifts to myself. It doesn’t have to be anything big, expensive, or at a distance. I pick something off my list and do it! No more waiting for when; now is the time.

I recently hired my friend, Side Job Jen, to pressure-wash my front porch and mentioned, “Someday I would like the ceiling painted blue in the southern tradition.” Jen said now is the best time since it’s freshly clean. I also told her someday I wanted a mural painted on my back patio wall, she told me her sister could make that happen. In two days, thanks to these young women, I had two beautiful areas added to my 107 year-old home. I am so grateful to have people in my life who nudge me into the present and out of the someday.

Have you put off experiences waiting for a time when things will get better or easier? Have you saved something to use or wear for a special occasion? Now is the time for special, because you are special. There is an expression, “If not now, when?” These are great words to live by. Time is of the essence. Say yes to now.

Cheryl Floyd, Speaker/Storyteller and Heal your Life® Coach. Cheryl Floyd is a graduate of East Tennessee State University’s Master Storytelling program Her career includes over thirty years in education, publishing, life coaching, public speaking, and storytelling. www.cherylfloyd.com