This past July, which is my birthday month, a professional acquaintance sent me a birthday message. It read, “Every year I challenge myself to do something I have never done but always wanted to do. So what will you accomplish by your next birthday?“
Little did he know that this simple #birthdaychallenge would challenge and stump me!
What will you accomplish by your next birthday?
For some reason, this question carried massive weight for me. What did I want to do that was novel and outside my usual daily routine? What did I want to commit time and energy to that was not yet on my to-do list? When was the last time I’d thought about my proverbial “bucket list”?
My mind was BLANK.
I honestly couldn’t think of one realistic response to send his way!
Sure, I have lots of things on my “One day” list:
*travel to Australia
*Learn to surf
*Swim with dolphins
*Retire and read the 5,000+ books on my “To Read” list
But what could I ACTUALLY commit to in the next year?
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How often do you think about expanding your skillset? Not in work, but in LIFE?
Obviously, this was a “muscle” that had atrophied in my mind. And this served as a really big wake up call for me.
I wonder how quickly and easily you were able to respond to this innocent question? Or, are you too still searching for an answer?
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As you close out the year, reflecting on the highs and lows of the past 12 months, I hope this article reminds you that one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself is the gift of strengthening your mind and mindset.
It is so easy to get stuck in a rut.
It is so easy to operate with blinders on.
It is so easy to let a week, a month, a season pass by without really lifting your head and taking a deep, reflective breath.
It is so easy to stay inside the lines of your life.
But the truth of the matter is, when you set out to do something new, to learn a new skill, to “try on” a new perspective, to step outside your comfort zone, you gain so much! Your brain literally develops new neural connections (aka:neuroplasticity) which contributes to the overall health of the brain. This form of “exercising” your brain leads to improvement in concentration, attention to detail, memory recall and problem solving.
Yes, this will make you a more productive, successful professional. But of equal (and maybe greater) importance, creating the time, energy, and motivation to try new things and learn new skills will make you a happier, more fulfilled person, an inspiring leader, an example for your children, family, friends and community.
It has a ripple effect. One that is immeasurable.
So, What will you accomplish by your next birthday?
I’d love to know what is on your list!
PS- I finally broke through the wall and identified a few different skills and experiences to which I have committed. And, taking a surfing lesson during my upcoming summer vacation made the cut!
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