Get out of your comfort zone.
I am a routine guy. I like the comfort of knowing what to expect, knowing where to go, feeling comfortable in my environment. I like going back to places that I have been before. I feel like certain places become “ours” after repeated visits. I feel like an insider.
The power of a partner.
My parent’s front porch was the spot where most important conversations happened when I was growing up and even later as a young man and father. Countless evenings sitting on that front porch with my Dad discussing problems, hopes, dreams, fears. Long conversations about sports, politics, religion, school, and girls were not uncommon.
Life is about what you do, not what you say.
Today is my Mother’s birthday. She would have been 85 today. If your Mother is still around, go see her or call her today. Give her a hug and tell her that you love her.
As I have stated in previous blogs, I believe in the power of words. I love how words can paint a picture in your mind that is completely unique to you.
Don’t let the old man in!
In explaining his longevity and huge success in his later years, Clint Eastwood famously said, “I get up every day and don’t let the old man in.” Seems pretty simple. It speaks to state of mind and controlling the narrative of your life. I will be honest, getting older scares the shit out of me. The thought of losing my independence terrifies me. But fear can be a powerful motivator!
Embracing change
Like many people, I have become a Chris Stapleton fan. His rendition of the national anthem at the Super Bowl will probably grow his fan base even more as new people discover more of his music. I love a set of lyrics from “Starting Over.” It speaks of embracing the unknown and not being afraid of change.
Living an intentional life
It seems that for many stretches of our lives, we live in a completely reactionary mode. We rush from one thing to the next without really thinking about how we want to live our lives. We are just too busy “living” our lives. Soccer games, school functions, family functions, work, and then do it again the next day. Always on the run and running behind. It seems like we are always obligated to someone else’s agenda or expectations. Never our own.
Travel rejuvenates my soul
It seems that for many stretches of our lives, we live in a completely reactionary mode. We rush from one thing to the next without really thinking about how we want to live our lives. We are just too busy “living” our lives. Soccer games, school functions, family functions, work, and then do it again the next day. Always on the run and running behind. It seems like we are always obligated to someone else’s agenda or expectations. Never our own.
Friends of all ages
As an only child, I spent a lot of individual time with my parents growing up. I have always been comfortable around people older than me. A lot of my good friends are older than I am. There is a lot of wisdom and knowledge to be gained by those who come before us.
Springsteen
I first discovered the music of Bruce Springsteen when I was a freshman in college. I bought “The River” album and I was hooked. He has been an important part of my life ever since.
Bruce is certainly not the greatest singer. However, I do think his less than epic voice does create a sense of everyman authenticity in his music that I can relate to.
The Importance of Mentors
You hear the word “influencer” a lot these days. But don’t confuse an influencer with a mentor. A mentor requires the development of a real, in-person relationship. Mentors have a profound impact on your life. You see things in them that you admire and respect. Qualities that you want to integrate into your life.
Men, we can do better
My earliest memories of my father are riding around the house on his foot and holding onto his leg as he walked around. I always felt safe when I was with my dad. As an only child, I got all of his attention, which I loved. We had a unique and special relationship, as much friends as parent and child. He was my best friend. He was my hero.