First Steps (finding your way)

Starting is always the hardest thing. I haven't blogged since my life disappeared into a whirlwind,  half a decade ago. Doesn't five years sound long when you say it that way? 

Last year, the whirlwind started to subside. I started returning to myself.

• I started working out for strong bones and muscles (like my heart!)
• I started playing piano 
• I started playing golf
• I started spending much more time with family
  
  

This year? I've realized a big part of returning to myself (showing up for myself) is found in both creativity and connection. 

I've always loved writing. As far back as I can remember, I've been scribbling in diaries and dreaming up stories for someday novels. The older I've gotten, though, the more it's felt like life always feels too busy to sit down and write. 

In March, I spontaneously decided to join a new Writers Group in town. They had a booth at our library's community involvement fair. Choose your own adventure.

I wound up at a beautiful house on a beautiful day, wine glass in hand as I listened to writers talk about their craft. Two of my new writer friends talked about how their favorite time to write is in the mornings, and how lovely it is to spend hours writing. 

Back when I worked in public accounting, a co-worker friend had introduced me to the concept of Desire Paths. They are unplanned trails that form by the natural movement of people or animals. Desire Paths show planners where formal roads might make the most sense, what is the easiest or most direct way to navigate a space. 

James Clear's famous book Atomic Habits echoes this, encouraging folks to remove friction and create an environment that naturally supports the habits they want to incorporate. 

I've been examining my own life for Desire Paths. What is the natural shape of my life? Where does energy naturally occur that can support the life I want to grow? How do I add supportive structure to what already works well?

My brain (and motivation) works best in the mornings. And so, in March, I began something new. Every Tuesday and Thursday morning before work, I take myself out on a writing date. It gives me something to look forward to, a bit of quiet in the midst of constantly chaotic breaking news. 

The more space I've made for writing, the easier and quicker I sink back into what I last was typing. I think that's how it is anytime you begin something. The next step is always a little easier, the path a little easier to find. 

This year, I'm beginning many things. I hope you join me as I explore them! 

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