Taking Charge

This summer has been good for me in so many ways.  I feel more in touch with myself than I have in a long time.  Traveling by myself forced me to be independent and, at times, bold.  I learned to trust others quickly, and to judge who could not be trusted.  I've made some incredible friends that I hope to keep for a long time.  

As silly as it may sound, I’m recognizing that I have a lot to bring to the table.  I’m not sure I’ve ever felt that way before; at least, not in a long time.  And I'm going to take charge of my life.    

This flood of positive feelings has led to some resolutions for my return back to real life in the States:

I'm not going to put up with much bullshit (some is always inevitable); and I’m not going to hang around people that don't make me happy or feel good about myself. 

I’m going to speak my mind more, and be more tolerant of others who do the same. 

I’m going to appreciate being able to drink water out of the tap – for real, I tend to forget what a luxury this is.  

I’m going to play more. 

I’m not going to spend time or energy on things that don’t feel right. 

I’m going to walk my dogs more.

I’m going to do more things by myself. 

I'm going to spend less money.  

I’m going to stress less about what I eat. 

I’m going to stop blow drying my hair as much. 

I’m going to smile more. 

Is this a clichéd Eat, Pray, Love kind of post?  Maybe.  But I’m okay with that.