Since March of this year I’ve taken an involuntary break from blogging. I stopped blogging in part because I got more conscious of being so openly vulnerable. I’m not violently against it but, I had a moment of pause when it came to considering topics I truly wanted to discuss.
And while I was not sharing my deepest darkest heart matters, this website is still a place that I appreciate being able to speak my mind.
I realized that I had grown weary of sharing too much about myself but equally constrained by the fact that I couldn’t share some of the more pressing things on my heart. Some things just hit a bit too close to home and I didn’t want to be so transparent.
Many a blog have been drafted and left in the dust because they were simply too raw.
Not to say that I haven’t had constructive things to share. There are a number of topics I am excited to explore and share with you all.
The New New
I also have a few things in the works as it relates to this website, it’s structure, purpose and future, but more on that soon.
In the midst of all this life has been happening as it often does and what a roller coaster 2023 has been.
Some ups and downs which have proven to be ripe with possibilities for new blogs.
Mind you, I feel like I am perpetually falling behind on some of the stuff that are important to me, but I’m doing my best and this blog is one of those steps.
This short missive is simply to say, I am here, I am alive, thriving, living growing and most importantly, moving…
By the way, I’m still reading, not as aggressively as I would’ve liked but I’m excited about ending the year strong.
Be inspired, Be informed, Be Glorious!
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I recently completed a course at work titled 10 Steps to Becoming a Successful Manager. I feel that it was timely because, so often we are thrust into these roles without much guidance therefore I entered the experience with openness and a willingness to learn.
For just over 5 years I have been charged with managing people, one of the single most difficult assignments I have ever had to take on in my professional career. Prior to this, the only person I had to regulate and be responsible for was myself, so imagine a world where I had to now manage expectations both internal and external to my team and most importantly, myself.
Every time I dared forget that each member of my team was now, in some way a representation of my own work ethic and reputation, I was violently reminded, even if, technically, this was not absolutely accurate.
Critiques, judgement and the gaze of those on the outside never tend to fall on the side of nuance or understanding minor details or even the truth. They usually play to a more general sentiment. And so as a leader you learn that what is unseen and unsaid, is often summed up by your stewardship.
Getting Situated as a Manager
I have observed that over the years, that through personal growth and maturity, my people-pleasing tendencies, have decreased significantly. However there is a certain level of proselytising that is assumed of anyone who becomes a new boss to a team, that is seemingly sizing you up and deciding if you are worthy of respect.
For my part I have learned to set boundaries for myself and model my own style of management on best practice I have experienced of leaders in my own life. But regardless of how you begin the journey, at some point you will have to decide if you are willing to sacrifice likeability for follow through. It’s not always an easy balance because, being authentic and choosing to do the right thing, as a leader, will not always be popular.
With that said, here are some of the most invaluable lessons I have learned so far about managing people.
It can be Thankless but Rewarding
One of the first things that you recognise about this role of leading others is that for the most part it is a thankless job. This is in part due to the typical structure of professional relationships where one person is placed ‘in charge’ and now has to navigate and mediate the needs of both upper leadership, and those who report to you.
This doesn’t even have to describe a contentious or fractious environment. The sooner you are able to recognise that accolades may not be quick to come from either side, the better.
Despite this glum outlook, the rewards of hard work and persistence will come. Whether through small changes in the output of those you lead or cohesive teamwork when it counts, these are the positive sparks that make it worth it! Finally, patience is an important trait in this regard.
Empathy flows in one direction (Kinda)
During the second chapter of my aforementioned training course, we focused on working well with others. A segment of that session featured this interview with Simon Sinek which touched on empathy. As a manager of people, I am often called upon to look within and empathise with those I work with. It helps to understand their perspectives, motivations, challenges and thought processes, even in post mortem. The most important skill I have honed and practiced on this journey is communication, because most if not all breakdowns begin with a lack of communication. So through that process, I am better able to empathise but more importantly, manage expectations.
Unfortunately, under most circumstances, empathy is only expected to flow in one direction and let’s be real – Who is out here trying to be in their boss’s shoes?
It can be a vindication when it does happen, however fleeting those moments are. The reality is some people remain willfully blind to the pressures and demands that drive you, to drive them. And more often than not, it’s a case of see no evil, hear no evil.
You’re a Manager not a Parent
If as a people manager you feel as though you are being positioned as a parent figure by your subordinates, then you should definitely interrogate how you approach your stewardship.
Because, while there is some amount of palpable parental instinct that may come into play when dealing with your charges, it should never extend to the more toxic aspects of the role that often results in breakdowns and detrimental challenges.
So, there will be an instinct to protect your team but perish the thought if you ever think you should shield them from every challenge that may roll around. That is out of your control and not your job, because it’s simply not doable. I’m personally of the view that some people model their behaviour towards leadership in the working world, on their relationships with their parents, in some cases. This is somewhat related to the phenomenon of transference but goes a bit beyond it.
Persons will feel the need to utilize tactics often reserved for their parents in dealing with challenges that arise with the person they report to. Think, gaslighting, emotional manipulation, rudeness, duplicitousness and other such indignities.
Consistency is vital
Adapting to changing circumstances is of course expected, especially in the fast paced world we live in. But while being flexible with change is pretty standard, commitment to being consistent with your words actions and principles is also important.
I am proud of the fact that whether impressions of me are bad, fair or fine, they will at least reveal a level of consistency that grounds how I navigate my professional space. When you are consistent, being held accountable is never a problem because there is no contradiction of your actions or even motivations.
Having consistent principles also provides some amount of guidance to those you lead because they will at least have a sense of your baseline and what makes you tick.
A community for support is a Lifeline
The most enduring element of my experience has been the support from my community of colleagues, friends and allies who have been a source of strength as I continue to grow in my leadership role and as a person.
You will need folks who will keep it 100 with you while providing a listening ear when you have to process some of the more difficult moments that often roll around because of ‘the work’.
Community also helps to provide perspective, a bit of mentorship and even coaching when needed. It is a vital support system that will help to keep you centred when everything around you seems out of balance.
Do the Work!
By do the work, I’m not referring to just the day job, but the internal work needed to maintain your mental health and your fortitude to deal with the busy (ness) of work life and managing others.
Additionally, your physical health cannot be the weakest link because everything it is the foundation of every other aspect of your life. For me that has been running and going to the gym, but lately that also includes therapy to better understand ‘me’. We can’t give to the world from an empty cup so it is acutely important to safeguard our source.
But even as I unpack explore the self-work required to be better and more grounded to deal with the job, I also want to highlight the fact that it goes hand in hand with striving for excellence in the work you do day-to-day. Being that exemplar of the standard you want to see in your team never hurts because your energy and work ethic can also set the pace for them.
These are my takeaways, my insights about an aspect of my life in leadership that I continue to learn about.
Let me know in the comments if you have any learnings of your own.
Be inspired, Be informed, Be Glorious!
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Whenever I think about personal finances, money management and wealth creation, of all the tips and tricks that are usually shared, most boil down to a single principle: curtailing spending.
It would seem to be the hardest thing to do especially with the ease that modern life brings spending literally to our fingertips and wallets. Everything is available online or for delivery as instant gratification is the goal and gift.
Also, because spending has become so ephemeral, there is a high level of disassociation as we are not usually seeing the money leave our hands. It’s all virtual, so for many people ignorance is bliss when it comes to certain spending habits, especially with credit and debit cards.
We have all adopted capitalist and consumerist habits which have assisted with the increase in consumer spending as the main driver of our economies, especially discretionary spending.
So how do you cope and ensure that you meet your goals around money?
Today I’m going to share some of my own strategies to curtail both my discretionary and non-discretionary spending.
Discipline is Key
It may seem obvious but at the heart of all efforts to curtail spending is a willingness to be disciplined and adhere to whatever measures of self-control you put in place. Impulse has a way of completely redirecting our intentions and derailing our plans.
Sometimes, the starkest way to maintain discipline is by reducing options as well as identifying triggers that may cause you to make rash spending decisions. When it comes to identifying triggers, I’ve gotten very good at recognizing the sweet spot that gets me to either make rash buying decisions or even consider buying something I never wanted previously. A big trigger for me is idleness but another I can admit to is envy and the need to either always grab an incredible deal or to get an item I want because I saw someone with something similar. From my own experience, we make many of our buying decisions based on endorsements from those closest to us.
One way I’ve sought to fix this is by unfollowing Fat Kid Deals on Twitter as a start because while it often has incredible deals, it is a major trigger for my impulse buying. Imagine seeing constant deals in your timeline. It’s much better for me to check out the account whenever I actually need something, just in case but it has proven unhelpful constantly exposing myself to a known trigger.
Shop with your eyes and not your wallet
We do this in real life all the time so you think it would be easy and straight forward but I have learned to shop with my eyes even with online sales and listicles featuring products. Sometimes looking is enough. My strategy to control my impulse in this regard is to create wish lists and air mark potential buy dates for certain items. Sometimes designating an item to ‘buy later’ as opposed to a ‘buy now’ is all it takes to save some money and prevent unnecessary spending.
Take breaks from online shopping as needed
Over the past 3 years I have made lent, my season of taking a break from online shopping. It’s a deliberate effort to truly curtail the amount of money I spend with online retailers because a convenient as it may seem, cumulatively, it adds up over time.
Instead, it allows me to explore local alternatives that for the most part I didn’t know existed because I seldom attempt to shop for certain things physically. You can either get the exact same item locally or something even better that is made here. Sometimes it’s good to go to a mall or store and check out what’s available. And while the prices might seem higher compared to the sticker prices we see online, when you factor in shipping and weight costs, it’s practically the same.
Sometimes the reflex to just source a product online is so easy and compelling we forget that most things can be gotten locally. Case in point, I recently broke my reading glasses and needed a new pair. The original was purchased online but due to my ongoing online buying pause, I decided to do a quick search online and was able to source a 3-pack at Pricesmart at a great price, sans the shipping cost.
Compare prices everywhere!
Price comparison shopping is one of the most basic exercises we do when trying to save money on our spending. Looking for the best price on any item or service should therefore come naturally, and it’s much easier than you think. Most people may have a favourite place to shop, but it’s helpful if that place is already giving you discounts and the best deal, when compared to a competitor. It’s much easier to do it online because everything is laid out before you, but there’s no shame in visiting different supermarkets for example, to see how the other folks live and the prices they experience. You would be surprised by the mark up in price between two almost neighbouring supermarkets. And while the shopping experience may be different, don’t pay extra for the basics due to ambiance.
Cancel those subscriptions you don’t use
I can bet if you check the monthly charges to your credit card or even things you have setup up on your debit cards, you will find that some of the services, you don’t actually use or need as much of. You would be surprised sometimes what subscriptions you have lurking around, that gets charged to you maybe once a year. For example, some years ago I had done a subscription to amazon newsstand to receive National Geographic Magazine because I love reading the articles and full issue. However over time I discovered I could never keep up, and while the subscription renewed each year, in stealth, I was not interacting with or consuming the content.
So after going through all my subscriptions on the platform I decided to remove it and save myself from that renewal for this year. It is always a good idea to select a reminder preference for all renewable services to ensure that you have a prompt before they are up for renewal.
What are some of your tried and true ways to curtail your spending? Tell me in the comments.
Be inspired, Be informed, Be Glorious!
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If I could travel back in time, I would tell my 14 year old self that when we become an adult, people will randomly compliment us on how good our skin looks.
The fact is, back then, in the late 90’s, I couldn’t fathom this reality because I thought my skin, especially the skin on my face, was the worst! This wasn’t because I had severe acne issues (although I would get a breakout here and there) however back then, ‘cool’ looking skin was in and I had a perpetual shine/sheen.
By cool, I mean inhumanly dry skin, which typically would be caused by genetics or frigid winters. Either way that was the goal of the boys and girls in high school, a determination to constantly look ‘cool’ with matte skin, sans makeup, of course.
They typically achieved this using one of two products: Noxzema or blue cake soap.
But with age and time I have grown to love my semi-oily skin with its constant sheen. Now instead of referring to it as just shiny, people comment on my glow.
Before I could finally get a handle on my skin, I had to appreciate it for what it was and understand what it actually needed.
The Secret
Several older folks have shared that the ‘secret’ to supple and youthful looking skin, way into old age is “moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!” I’ve also found that protecting your skin from the sun is an important habit for long term health, not just to stave off premature aging but sunburn and skin cancer.
Sun kissed and unfiltered – Me
So while only a handful of people have ever asked, I am sharing some of the ingredients of my skin and body care regimen. And while genetics probably plays a role in my ‘good looking’ skin, it only goes so far without care.
My Regimen
Before I get down to the individual items, I want to share a bit of insight into my basic skin care routine. Additionally, I want to make it clear that I am not giving advice about your skincare. I’m sharing details about the products that I’ve used with the hope that you may discover something that can also help you.
I follow the tried and true formula: Cleanse, Tone, Moisturize, sun protection + extras and exfoliation thrown in every now and again. This is largely what works for me as it is basic enough to follow and covers all the important must-dos.
There are also some other products I include for maintenance, especially as I sit on the precipice of age 40.
Just so you know, some of the product links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.
Cleanse
The first step in the routine is cleansing and for that I’m currently keeping it very simple. My main go-to cleansing product is the Neutrogena Deep Clean Daily Facial Cleanser. I’ve also been known to use Ari Sulphur acne treatment soap, which is a Jamaican made product. Both are available in local pharmacies at quite reasonable prices. Both have anti-acne ingredients that help to treat or prevent those random adult breakouts.
Regardless of what cleanser you choose, key to that process are the items you use to apply them to your skin and the Buf-Puf facial sponge does it better than most!! The sponges come in extra-gentle, gentle and regular texture and really help to distribute the cleanser across my skin, while gently removing dead skin.
Toner
When it comes to using toners I have to admit that I have been a bit less consistent than I would want to be. However I have used either a glycolic acid based toner or my new fave the CeraVe Hydrating Toner which is loaded with the good stuff: 3 essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. Most importantly it’s alcohol and fragrance free and helps maintain moisture in my skin, which becomes more important as you age. Paula’s Choice also makes a pretty good product but it’s a bit pricey for me.
Moisturizer
I typically use a vitamin c infused facial moisturizer but it has been discontinued so I am transitioning to the Cetaphil Daily Hydrating lotion for face with hyaluronic acid.
In the meantime, a staple in my routine over the past 4 years has been the Nivea Men Sensitive Face Lotion with SPF 15 broad spectrum sunscreen. This serves two purposes: it moisturizes and provides sunscreen protection.
And while I love the convenience of using a moisturizer that has SPF protection, I like the flexibility of having a standalone moisturizer for those days I don’t actually get sun exposure.
Sun Protection
As I said previously, I have been using an SPF infused face lotion for a while, so I only ever used a standalone sunscreen when I go to the beach. That said I recently got the Banana Boat light as air facial sunscreen at 50+ SPF. It goes on easy and there is no annoying white cast when you use it so it’s simple to apply over my facial moisturizer.
I am also testing out the Cerave Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 for face which has the typical infusion of skin friendly ingredients the brand is known for and is suitable for sensitive skin.
The Extras
This is my favourite part because these products are the ‘in-betweeners’ of my routine and have proven to be life changing.
Eye Cream
I fell in love with eye creams ever since I got a free sample from a Kiehl’s store in the US. Since then I have been using different types, specifically creams with caffeine that add a little zing. Recently I discovered a new product that specifically targets dark circles under my eyes – Cardon Dark Circle Eye Rescue.
I decided to seek out a product like this after doing a photo shoot last year and realizing that whenever I had makeup applied under my eyes, it evened out my entire face. The dark areas under my eyes, created a shadow on my face that basically adds a completely different dimension to my appearance. This eye rescue worked exactly as promised and overtime it has reduced the dark areas under my eyes and removed any puffiness. For what you get, it’s a little pricey but it is completely worth it and will also last a while. Finally, I typically use this before applying moisturizer.
Masks
I use masks occasionally, especially when I have been undergoing a bit more stress than usual and need to give myself some added care. The two masks I currently use are made by a local brand Earth Elements and I use both at different times, depending on my mood and what I am trying to adjust in my skin.
On days when I just need some nourishment, I use the Matcha Green Tea Clay Face Mask that goes on smooth and leave my skin feeling refreshed.
When I want to calm my skin down I choose the Glacial Clay Facial Mask which has a pleasant cooling and tightening effect. It also goes on smooth and leaves my skin feeling not only tighter but soft and supple.
Lip Care
In all things skin, our lips are often overlooked, at our own peril. I have learned from experience that lips need all the love and licking them a million times a day just won’t cut it, so I am always trying out new lip balms. Among the best I’ve ever used is the Kiehl’s Lip Balm #1.
Using this kept my lips plump and healthy, no stripping in sight and I never had to worry about dryness. And while the price is not the most affordable, my only other drawback was the sheen of the balm itself when applied to my lips – it will give your lip a healthy but distracting shine, which may be triggering to some people who feel that men’s lips should only be a muted matte, not shiny (I have the reactions and comments to prove it).
On the other side is another fave, Jack Black’s Intense Therapy Lip Balm which also comes loaded with SPF 25 skin protection! Love the way these smell and how long they last, plus they don’t leave any pesky white residue on your lips.
My most affordable and accessible go-to lip balm is Burt’s Bees specifically the rescue balm series with turmeric. I always keep a few of these around because they do the job and prevent my lips from cracking.
After Shave Serum
I shave my head and facial hair myself, so I seldom visit an actual barber. In fact in the past 3 years I’ve only gone to a barber once. The Cantu Shea Butter post-shave soothing serum is my go to whenever I shave. It soothes all that shaved skin and has an understated fragrance.
A little goes a long way and it usually lasts a while and it is widely available so you can pick it up at any well-stocked pharmacy or beauty supply store.
Resurfacing Retinol Serum
Another serum which I swear by is the CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum which does exactly what its name suggests – helps to reveal smooth layers of your skin while reducing the appearance of pores and left over acne marks.
African Bath Sponge
Finally, couldn’t do a skin upkeep post without mentioning this gem that I discovered last year, on tik tok no less. The African bath sponge is one of the best things I have ever showered with. It’s so good I have pretty much ditched loofah sponges. It exfoliates while keeping you clean and works well with both bar and liquid soaps.
That’s the extent of my current routine and while some of the products may be switched out over time, I keep it simple and sustainable. Regular exercise and water consumption also plays a key role in my skin’s health.
I would love to know what products and routines you all use to make your skin great. Sharing is caring so let me know in the comments!
Be inspired, Be informed, Be Glorious!
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If you know me personally, you are very aware that I love a good laugh and my sense of humour is always ready to be tickled. With that preamble there should be no surprise about the context of this blog. Different fragments of this idea have been tumbling around in my head for a while, so here goes.
I was recently, relaxing on a beach where there happened to be a wedding underway. I was in ear shot, so I could hear the ceremony begin with the familiar strains of Mendelssohn’s Wedding March.
Once that was over I assumed that the official part of the ceremony had begun. Soon after I heard one of my favourite Stevie Wonder tunes begin to play: ‘Signed, Sealed, Delivered’. I thought to myself, that’s as appropriate a song as any for the DJ to play at that exact moment.
And after hearing that it occurred to me, suppose the DJ had chosen to play the wrong song(s) on this very special occasion?
A wedding is such a precious memory for the happy couple but you best believe that there are a few things that can ruin it – drunken guests, exes, quarreling family members and most importantly, questionable musical selections.
I have jokingly considered some of the most inappropriate songs to be either played by a DJ, dedicated or used as a toast by a guest or generally be heard anywhere near a wedding ceremony. So in no particular order, here are my top 5 worst songs to play at a wedding and some alternatives, because hey, I got your back #nojoke. Be guided and thank me later.
Wedding No No: As We Lay – Kelly Price
I love this song! Kelly Price’s remake of this Shirley Murdoch original was a new classic when she covered it in 2000. Beautiful arrangement and singing cannot however hide the fact that this song is about a woman pining over another woman’s husband, with whom she has previously spent the night with.
It’s worth mentioning that a few years ago, Kelly was invited to an event organised by a church to perform some of her hits. However, due to a timing issue her performance was pushed up too close to the beginning of the church’s main convention event. Let’s just say, it made headlines, and they weren’t pretty. What’s even worse, As we Lay was one of the songs that she performed. It sounds good and could probably be perfect for an intimate dance, but not at a wedding, unless you are really trying to be super MESSY. Save yourself the embarrassment or bruises and go with my suggested alternative: Why I Love You by MAJOR.
Wedding No No: If Walls Could Talk – Celine Dion
I remember the first time I encountered this song. It was in 1999 when Celine released her ‘All the Way’ album. I love it for a number of reasons such as the fact that it was produced by Robert ‘Mutt’ Lange, ex-husband of Shania Twain plus, Shania did some of the backup on the track.
The song is sensual, perfectly arranged and sets the tone for so much romance. So no wonder it is a popular tune at strip joints and go-go clubs in Jamaica, which is funny because it was never a single, so DJs at these clubs must’ve really loved it, thus solidifying its popularity. All that being said, let’s lower the temperature at the wedding a tad bit and leave this off the playlist, at least, during the early part of the reception. Keep it safe and accessible and suggest the DJ play another Celine fave: Because you Loved me.
Wedding No No: Ordinary People – John Legend
Alright, weddings are deep and emotionally, they rank pretty high as life events. But is the ceremony the place to dig up all that ‘real’ drama? It is supposed to be a fantasy that will make not only an indelible impression on guests, but give the married couple something wonderful to remember for years to come (hopefully). That said, reminding that they are ordinary people “who just need to take it slow” is NOT goals’. Cut to the chase and make an appropriate dedication with John’s other tune: All of me.
I know I’m not the only one – Sam Smith
So, my admission, I loved Sam Smith’s first album and the songs he wrote and performed so ably during that era. However, his repertoire leaves much to be desired when it comes to visions of matrimonial bliss. Here-to-fore, it would be highly inappropriate for anyone attending a wedding or otherwise involved to either perform or dedicate this song to the happy couple. I don’t care if you love it. Sadly, it’s slim pickings from Sam, because he hasn’t quite mastered presenting stable relationships in his music just yet. That said, if you must have a Sam Smith song played, choose: Latch (Acoustic).
Ready For Love – India Arie
India Arie has a song for every mood. For the generation who may have missed her emergence and glory days, do a youtube search for “Strength, Courage and Wisdom” (you’re welcome). She has a number of ballads and has always been able to capture some of those vulnerable aspects of relationships and love that, otherwise don’t get featured in popular music (Just check this tune).
Now, Ready for Love would seem like a perfect complement to any wedding, however check the lyrics and you’ll realize that it speaks to a place on the journey of love that the newlyweds should be past. I would hope that I am more than ready for love on my wedding day, but maybe that’s just me. She has a beautiful alternative in this song: Can I walk with you.
Tell me some of your wedding song no-no’s and must haves in the comments section!
Be inspired, Be informed, Be Glorious!
Kevin
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Sometime ago I was at home, having a mind muse when the thought “Know Thyself” popped into my mind. It was like fate inserted that timely reminder into my psyche to get me gathered.
Of course, as musings go, I tweeted it out and it connected with a number of people.
It seems we are always being reminded by life to know who we are, for ourselves. It is important and vital.
Every day we go about our lives and typically we are in constant contact with other members of our communities – work, school, gym, family, etc.
But what I’ve realized is that people are always trying to decide who we are, based on their perception and just how they experience us each day. It can be tempting to accept and even feel comfortable with these distinctions. Who doesn’t want to be considered ‘Lit’?
Knowing who you are, fo’ real isn’t just something nice to say, it is a conscious examination of every facet that defines us and our actions.
I Know Me
I am an introvert.
For a time, I felt comfortable saying that I was shy, but shyness didn’t fully account for some aspects of my personality, that went beyond how I felt around people. It was more all encompassing and definitive.
Shyness, people can get over, but I was different. I recognised that it took more out of me to attempt to make friends or even get to know people. To this day that’s still an issue, which has decreased over time, but is still evident.
Sadly, many people misconstrue my introversion for other things… dislike, disgust, disdain, aloofness even – when really I may just be too distracted trying to keep my ‘ish’ together.
Nevertheless, I make no excuses.
“There comes a time when you look into the mirror and you realize that what you see is all that you will ever be. And then you accept it. Or you kill yourself. Or you stop looking in mirrors.” ― Tennessee Williams.I know myself and therefore I am unbothered by how people respond to that aspect of my personality; I know, I usually don’t mean people ill will, and therefore I try not to beat myself up about it.
I’m a communicator, by profession.
And while I acknowledge the irony of this, being able to compartmentalise aspects of my personality helps.
The ebullient Communications professional asks all the questions, speaks into the microphone but someone who is also quiet and appreciates alone time.
Standing my ground
As I have matured and grown older, it has become easier for me to stand my ground and remain unbothered about other people’s issues with my idiosyncrasies. After almost four decades of refining and being truly honest with myself, it is safe to say, I don’t give a damn.
But standing my ground also comes at a cost.
There is the clear and present danger of me being misunderstood and misinterpreted by some folks. Most recently I have learned the value of truly standing in my truth and letting that do the talking.
That includes accepting certain personal shortcomings and fully understanding that I am imperfect and a work in progress.
Just Be
It is because I am so aware of who I am, why I firmly reject labels which seek to oversimplify, and dilute the true essence of who I am. I am more than what someone can throw at me in a phrase that seeks to define me.
There is a joy that comes with knowing that you never owe another soul an explanation for who you are and the important choices you make.
In knowing and fully acknowledging who I am, I have been able to come to terms with so many things that have occurred in my life over the past few years. The good that manifested from hard work and perseverance and the bad that was unearthed when the life decided to show me what was lurking under the surface.
Probably the best part about knowing who I am is the fact that it makes any decision to change, that much easier. As I outlined in this post in June change is what keeps me driven and excited about life. I’m still learning, growing and changing. Some will like it, some won’t.
Be inspired, Be informed, Be Glorious!
Kevin
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