I call myself an eternal optimist (for better or worse).
And, I am eternally optimistic that 2022 WILL be different.
Even if the world around us isn't changing or evolving as quickly as we would like - change is still within our control.
We can always change ourselves for the better.
This year I am setting two very clear intentions to help me stay focused on my personal and professional development.
First, to stay focused on my health. 🚴 🎿
I received my new Trek street bike in November and have been really enjoying it - before the weather became too cold. Now as I look out the window I see five inches of snow on the ground. So, I bought myself a Christmas gift of a new pair of skies. I intend to ski at my local resort three mornings a week to stay in shape both physically and mentally. There is nothing like the cold mountain air on a sunny morning to refresh the spirit!
Second, is to listen with more intention. 👂
One of my personal challenges is deeply listening to others - my brain gets the better of me sometimes! And so this year I am going to be very intentional about being a better listener. A recent book inspired me to make this my focus. The author quoted Bill Walsh, the famous coach of the San Francisco 49ers. Walsh once said, "Communications creates collaboration. Big ears are better than big egos. When you're not listening, ask good questions!"
I've told you mine, now tell me yours!
Do you have any intentions for this year? I'd love to hear about them and how you're going to make them a reality!
I went tropical in January!
From left to right: Phil, Shannon, Marianne, and Jeff
I am grateful that I was able to start 2022 with an optimistic outlook by spending some time in Hawaii with my wife, youngest son Phil, and his girlfriend Shannon.
We enjoyed some wonderful hikes, delicious food, and relaxing time on the beaches of the Big Island.
Marianne and I culminated our stay with a visit to Pearl Harbor for a "workshop recon mission." We visited some key locations for an upcoming Pearl Harbor workshop with a large university in the spring.
I am very excited to be getting back to some in-person workshops and am optimistic that this will continue as the year progresses.
We returned home greeted by snow, ice, and wind chills of below 0 degrees. Time to break out the skis!