I have a confession to make. Lately, I’ve been a sucker for self-help books, especially ones that are specifically geared towards empowering women. Between challenges at work and still trying to figure out what I want to be when I grow up, there are moments when I need all the help I can get. And I tend to find inspiration, wisdom and solace in these kinds of books.

Here is what is on my bookshelf now:

• Becoming, by Michelle Obama
• You are a Badass, by Jen Sincero
• The 5 Second Rule, by Mel Robbins
• Big Magic, by Elizabeth Gilbert
• Year of Yes, by Shonda Rhimes

I’ve read these books from cover to cover. I drink in all the stories and feel some strange connection to the authors. And I’ve discovered that these books all have one common message: believe in yourself.

Whatever your dream may be, believe in it. Don’t let anyone tell you that it can’t be done. Believe in your talent. Believe you can make time to put in the work. Believe that your efforts, determination and sacrifices will all be worth it in end.

Sounds obvious. Right? Sounds simple? Hardly. But I’m getting there. Which brings me to my word for 2020 – believe.

I believe that I’m a good writer and inside of me is a writing project ready to come out and someday share with the world.

I believe in the power of community, particularly my synagogue and writers’ groups. I believe the more I give of myself to these communities; the more I get out of them.

I believe if I put my mind to it, I can do anything: lose weight, cook healthy delicious meals, learn to swim (again).

I believe I can give 100% to my career and family and still have time to pursue my dreams and take care of myself because I’m worthy.

In this new year, I plan to put all that I’ve learned from these books to good use. My heart is full of hope for the future. All I need to do is believe.

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Hello!

First of all, thanks for visiting my blog. If you have commented in the past–whether on Facebook or in the comments section–THANK YOU AGAIN! I love reading your comments. 

So now, I have a favor to ask of you! Now that you are here, what would you like to know? What question would you like me to answer? What is causing the most stress right now? Maybe I’ve been where you’ve been and can tell you what worked for me.

Go on! Ask me anything! Tomorrow, I will select one or two (or a few questions) and answer them for you! So, leave a comment below and ask me a question!

I can’t wait to see what you have for me! 

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I’ve never been one to stay in my comfort zone for too long. It’s a lovely place to be for a while, and enjoy the low stress, high-performance lifestyle–but eventually, I get antsy and realize it’s time for a change. And we all know where change lives, that’s right, at the end of our comfort zones.

Take something simple like my haircut. I always want to change it up. I get bored easily. I might want a new style. (Man, do I miss my short hair!) Or it could be less dramatic and more fun, like going from a blonde to a darker blonde to a brunette. Once, I went off the rails and asked my hairdresser to add a little red to the mix. I liked it for a few weeks, but in the end, it wasn’t for me.

But, generally, I’ve always enjoyed and embraced the idea of changing something about myself. Some see it is as a makeover; I see it as rebranding.

Here are a few challenges I’ve put in place to tackle over the next few months.

Because I work in the non-profit world, I tend not to volunteer as much as I should. Sure, I pack and deliver boxes at the food pantry a few times a year, and I’ve organized “dine and donate” events for the school, but I’d like to up my volunteer game. I know I’d enjoy an opportunity to serve on the board of a cause I’m passionate about, or mentor a young professional who could use a trusty compass. I need to replace my “sit on the couch and watch Netflix” comfort zone and do some good in the world.

Here’s another challenge. I’ve never considered myself to be much of an athlete, but I’ve become too comfortable in my own skin lately. So much so that I’ve put on more than a few pounds that need to come off. I’m building a new habit of spending 10-15 minutes a day doing something active. Eventually, that will build up to 30 minutes, but I’m taking it slow. And I’ll need some motivation so I’ll get back to those Weight Watchers meetings I’ve been ignoring on my calendar. Being a part of a community motivates me, whether it is one with writers or one filled with people looking for a healthier self. I need to find that community again.

Finally, I want to seek out more ways to show kindness. While someone may consider nice people to be pushovers, I see it as my superpower. If you are looking for some help with something, just ask. If you are looking for a job, I’ve been told I’m a good writer and editor of cover letters and resumes. If you are going through a tough time, I can be a good listener. If you are looking for a book recommendation for your next book club, I have a kick-ass list. Or maybe I’ll send you a card or a little gift to let you know I’m thinking of you. How can I be of help to you?

Comfort zones can be dangerous places to stay for too long. Time for me to move out of mine. If you’ve done this before, I’d love to hear about your experiences. Please share!

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