Why is it that we can’t take time to savor anything before moving onto the next thing?
It seems like we live in a world where, “Thank you, next” is everyone’s motto. I’m reminded of this each New Year’s Eve. I say Not. This. Year!
I am getting asked all the time about what I am going to do next now that I made the decision to leave NYSUT and for awhile my answer was, "I don't know."
It was the truth. Still is. I really didn't know what my next chapter will be, but I am actually okay with that. Very much so in fact.
I’d like some time to reflect on what was and set my intentions for what will be. But I don’t have to have those answers today, and I certainly am not going to rush into anything.
My wish for you in 2023 is that you are able to be intentional with your time and actions too. Don’t wait, like I did, until you are in your 50s to do what your heart tells you you should be doing. Let that be a cautionary tale for all of you. Don't wait to start living. I saw a quote that sums it up perfectly,
“The longer you entertain what’s not for you, the longer you postpone what is.”
Not any more. I realize I am fortunate to be able to do this now. But even if you can’t embrace being fully intentional due to finances or life circumstances, you can take baby steps.
Ask yourself a few questions:
Who will I spend my time with, and how will I spend my time?
Most importantly, who am I surrounding myself with and how do they view me and my talents?
I thought I'd be scared about this next year, but I’m not.
I'm excited.
I'm hopeful.
I'm ready.
I feel open.
I've said several times to well-meaning folks that I am not retiring. I am leaving a part of my life behind and focusing on what is next. (In case you are keeping score at home I still don’t know what that is… yet!)
There is one thing I am certain of, I’ll never stop fighting for women’s rights. N-E-V-E-R! Dedicating my time and energy to pushing that pebble up the hill could easily be a full-time job alongside like-minded, committed women. Working arm and arm with the women who comprise the NYSUT Women’s Committee for six years has transformed me as a human being and made me see the value of strong, dedicated sisterhood circles and the power that lies within them. Maybe I’ll set my intentions in that direction.
Whatever this next chapter brings, it will be a beautiful adventure. After all, when you are walking away from something you are actually walking toward something else.
So, when I’m asked about what I am doing next my new answer will be, "I am going to be intentional." And for the rest of it, I guess we will all have to wait and see.
How will you be intentional in 2023? I can’t wait to see what you will do when you set your mind to it.
