2008 In Review

I survived 2008. That is the most important thing that came out of my reflection on 2008. I faced multiple challenges. I think they encouraged me to look deep into myself and take stock of my life and who I was or had become. I didn't like everything I saw and set about changing it. I couldn't control some of the events happening, but I could control me and my reaction to them. I had become bitter, frustrated, unhappy, depressed and sad. Wow, I saw a person I didn't recognize. So, what did I do about it??

I sought out hobbies, I began my journaling again, I read article after article on depression, healthy living, controlling stress and everything else I could get my hands on that might help me learn and grow as a person. I visited with a counselor who helped me with info on relaxation, automatic thinking and skills to control my thoughts and not let them control me. I started depression medicine which helps me to control my emotions and allows me to think before letting my emotions take over. I began daily affirmations to constantly remind me I am worthy of good things. I slowly began to believe it! I surrounded myself with positive energy and good thoughts. And I shared... I even started a spark team so others like me could share what they have learned. It all worked!!!

I am happy. I am positive. I am in control. However, this is just the beginning of my journey. One small journey has been achieved leading me to my next journey...2009. Someone mentioned they select a word for the year and coordinate their goals around that word. I like that idea. I will meditate on what word best describes my goal for 2009 and continue with my blog.

What didn't work so well for 2008?
**Inconsistent in strength training
**Allowed things to interfere with walking
**Fast Food!!!!
**Poor scheduling of time
**Poor planning of meals
**Exhaustion interfering with healthy lifestyle (hopefully this will be fixed with my sleep apnea discovery and solution)

When I plan my road map for 2009 I will incorporate paths to improve these things.

Happy Journey!