The Scary & Fantastic Decision to Invest In Yourself

Last Thursday I wasn't here to write my usual weekly note to you-- and as the day came and went, it seemed strange not to be sitting at my computer tapping away, hopefully writing something that touches your heart and helps you to see life in your home differently...

I spent last week in Atlanta, Georgia soaking up the southern charm (the house above was where I was so blessed to stay), taking time to work ON my business rather than IN it, learning inspiring new things, and spending time with supportive, insightful fellow entrepreneurs. In short, I was at a business retreat--and I came home with a whole new perspective on things…especially on YOU.  :)

I always have a bit of trepidation whenever I go away on one of these trips, and this time was no exception. I worry about all kinds of things--the kids, the husband, the dog (no need to worry about the cat--he is always fine).  I rush around sending last minute emails, packing my suitcase,  trying not to forget anything that I need...

But if I am honest with myself, the real reason I am nervous is because I am about to do something new. I am about to do something that is different from the way I always have done things, I am investing time and money in myself, and I am landing smack-dab in the middle of an environment that is all about growing and stretching oneself. What a bunch of uncomfortable but oh-so-powerful things to do.

Now that I am back home and writing to you once again, I wanted to tell you that I have a new appreciation for the nervous place you may be in if you are considering working on your house in the coming months. A renovation, redesign, or reorganization is a way of stepping up and grabbing life with both hands. House projects challenge 'the way things have always been' in a big way-- in your current family situation and even in the larger context of your family of origin. How your family homes have always been lived in may or may not be the way you want to move forward in your life. And change is hard. 

A house project shows that you have decided to invest money and time in yourself---because creating a nurturing, inspiring, beautiful space to call home is an amazing outward sign that you value yourself and are stepping forward into your life in a meaningful way.  

It was no coincidence that I stumbled across this card at Trader Joe's last week...

The inside of the card reads:

"Congratulations on a place of your own!"

A place of your own--that is what I encourage you to create, even though it can be a bit scary at times.

A place of your own-- a home that is a restorative, supportive, foundational element as you live your life fully, extend hospitality to those you love,  and do all the good work you were put here on Earth to do. 

Amen!