Is it just me?

Published: Thu, 06/15/17

Is it just me...

... or does it feel like the first 165 days of 2017 went by at triple-warp-speed? 

It feels like two seconds ago that I was celebrating New Years Eve. Cake and champagne. Wishes and goals. Then I glanced at my computer, answered a few emails, looked up, and whaaaaat just happened? Um. It's the middle of June?!? 

This week, I've been feeling an urge to slooo-oow down, exhale, sit cross-legged in the center of my bed, and take stock of everything that's happened since January 1st. Because it's been... a lot. I came up with 10 questions to percolate on. If you'd like to join me for some mid-year reflection, here are the q's...


- 10 QUESTIONS -

1. What were my goals at the beginning of this year?

2. Are my goals the same—or have things changed?

3. Is there something I've been doing lately—like a writing project, a business project, or any kind of project or commitment—that's not feeling "right" anymore? Do I need to keep doing it? What would happen if I just stopped? 

4. What's something I'm sick of hearing myself say, over and over? Like, "I really need to start..." "I really need to stop..." "Seriously, for real, this week I will..."

5. What's something I definitely want to create, achieve, or experience before the end of this year?

6. Who are some people I feel jealous of right now—and why? What do they have—or appear to have—that I want?

7. Who's someone who's been an important part of my life this year—like an amazing friend, mentor, or colleague? Have I said "thank you" to that person recently?

8. What's something I see out in the world that breaks my heart? What could I do, say, create, or contribute to be "part of the solution"?

9. Fill in the blank: "This year, one of the best decisions I made was _______."

10. And lastly: Fill in the blank: "This year, I feel proud of myself because _______."

Maybe you'll want to answer those questions in your journal. Or on your blog. Or with friends around the dinner table. Or aloud, muttering to yourself as you walk across the Super Target parking lot. So many options! 

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I tend to get good ideas when I flip upside down...
Photo by Art Fare

 
- A FEW OTHER THINGS -

Here's a miscellaneous grab-bag of videos, articles, and interviews for you to check out this week, or later, or whenever, or never, 'cause no pressure...

- A free video-class (60 minutes) that I did with my friend Susan on how to stop procrastinating and start writing. (My favorite part is when we talk about the 6 different types of motivation!)

- A free video-class (also 60 minutes) that I did with my friend Susan on how to deal with criticism, rejection, bullies, trolls, and terrible 1-star Amazon reviews.

- I got invited to share "what I wish I'd done differently" back when I decided to become self-employed. You'll see answers from 14 other people, too! Super cool. 

- I wrote an article about how my partner and I started a brunch restaurant and how we found customers back when nobody knew we existed. 

- Yearning to start a blog or a newsletter? Write an e-course? Create a book? Or...? I have a new online class called DIG DEEP which dives into the emotional side of writing—how to release perfectionism, set realistic writing goals, build confidence, and stay motivated to keep writing even when it feels like "nobody is noticing" your work. We've been doing some really fun stuff inside this class lately—like prize giveaways to reward people for hitting their goals, and live Q&A sessions, and more! You can sign up and join in anytime. 

- I keep thinking about this kid and his unstoppable spirit. Talk about "digging deep." He's an inspiration to us all!

- If this year has bruised your heart, here are 20 reasons to be hopeful about humanity. There's a lot of agony and darkness out there. But also, so much light.

- You've probably been urged to "get into your happy place." But getting into your angry place is powerful, too.

- If you need to feast your eyes upon something pure, wholesome, and delightful today, then please watch this super-fluffy dog getting a haircut. You're welcome. 

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Confession: I totally forgot to pack a bra for this photoshoot.
Additional confession: I didn't forget. I just hate bras.
Photo by Art Fare


THAT'S ALL FOR TODAY!

Have a beautiful week, wherever you may be. Be kind to yourself. Say "hi" to a stranger. Set aside your phone and (to quote my friend Clare) "look up, not down." Amazing things tend to happen when we're wide-eyed, open-hearted, and un-shielded. Then again, sometimes birds poop right on your head. But not every time! So that's something. Yes. {deep, soothing, contemplative voice} That's something.

-Alex

PS. Lately I've been listening to Röyksopp. A lot. Also, I've become absolutely obsessed with Maria Bamford and I recommend that you watch every stand-up routine she's ever done. Raw, vulnerable, hysterical, unlike any comedian I've ever seen before. 

PPS. I just found out from my publisher that my next book—You're Going To Survive—has a tentative release date of November 1, 2017. We're finalizing the cover design this month. It's really happening. OMG x infinity. I'll be doing a couple bookstore events in various cities, and I'll share all the info as soon as I can. So. Exciting. Will. Probably. Cry.

PPPS. You are so cute, strong, resourceful, and smart. In case you forgot.