Notes from Steve

I’m writing this on a cold Monday morning in January (1°).  I told Sharon TerHark on the way in that “I’m trying to find my smile” … I’m sticking with that.  I realize that my articles throughout January are filled with slightly less than positive perspectives on life, but this is my reality.  If I could lay in a fetal position under a weighted blanket in my living room with the shades pulled and get away with it -- I would. But I have to “find my smile” and march diligently on to the days of better weather.  

The other day, I was talking with a friend about being on time for stuff.  I was raised with the constant chatter from my dad that if you aren’t ten minutes early, then you’re late.  Well, that isn’t practiced by anyone anymore.  I told my friend that my goal going forward is to try and maybe not be the first to arrive.  (Ugh … this feels like pre-hives; it’s not something I’m comfortable with.)  I asked her if people are really that busy in life, or do they magically get busy right before they are supposed to leave?  Do they wake up running all day and get so much done?  “Some are,” she said, “but some are massive procrastinators who wait until the last minute and then are late.  All the time.”  

I’m not late. I’m usually early, but I’m sure I have other things to work on.  How people perceive us and judge us* based on our actions is key to how they see us in life.  Do I mumble, do I pay attention, (“put down your phone, Steve, and pay attention**”), am I too nice/assertive/quiet/passive?  Are my manners in question, do I dress inappropriately, do I eat with my mouth open?  Perhaps January is the month I need to focus on self-reflection and not just set big, hairy, audacious goals for myself but see myself as others see me and try to improve.  Being your best self is allowing for criticism and becoming the better person for it.  

*Everyone judges.  Get over it.
**this