Building a Better Boat

I keep hearing a song on the radio that speaks to me by one of my all-time favorites Kenny Chesney. Sidenote: If you have never seen one of his concerts, I encourage you to treat yourself to a ticket, at least once in your lifetime. This song, which nudges me into an introspective mood, is titled “Better Boat” – here are the lyrics:
 
I ain't lonely, but I spend a lot of time alone
More than I'd like to, but I'm okay with staying home
By how the last few months have changed
I smile of mourn despite the pain
I breathe in, I breathe out
Got friends to call who let me talk about
What ain't working, what's still hurtin'
All the things I feel like cussing out
Now and then I let it go
Around the waves I can't control
I'm learning how to build a better boat
I hate waiting, ain't no patience in these hands
I'm not complaining, sometimes it's hard to change a man
I think I'm stronger than I was, I let God do what he does
I breathe in, I breathe out
Got friends to call who let me talk about
What ain't working, what's still hurtin'
All the things I feel like cussing out
Now and then I let it go
Around the waves I can't control
I'm learning how to build a better boat
I breathe in, I breathe out
Got friends to call who let me talk about
What ain't working, what's still hurtin'
All the things I feel like cussing out
Now and then I let it go
Around the waves I can't control
If it's working I don't know
When I get done the thing may not flow
But I'm learning how to build a better boat
 
The idea of “building a better boat” – in my mind – is about creating a safe place inside of ourselves where we are ok with quiet, with being alone with our thoughts, and maybe even with being a bit lonely at times. Developing the ability to let go and not always worry about what is out of our control is one of the most freeing steps toward self-actualization.
 
We each need to identify what enables us – uniquely as individuals – to build the BEST boat, the best versions of ourselves. Ask, “What fills me up and makes me calm, happy, content, peaceful? Which  practices and boundaries for self should be non-negotiable in my life?” Examples include:

• Exercising regularly
• Spending time with nature
• Getting enough of sleep
• Creating fun with friends
• Scheduling one-on-one time with those we love
• Worshipping and praying or meditating
• Drinking plenty of water
• Taking vacation and time away from work
• Eating healthy food that fights off disease and keeps you at your best​
  

(The song reminds me, too, of my dear friend Anne, who is constantly coaching me about the importance of “setting my table” with the elements I need for proper self-care as a busy working mother of four children. We can’t help anyone else if we don’t first take care of ourselves.) 
 
Back to the song analogy: The seas that we ride in our boats are often rough. We can’t stop the waves, but we can control the boat that we build and maintain, as well as which tools we acquire to navigate the ocean in our lives.
 
As we close out 2018 and prepare for the year ahead, I invite you to reflect on your own boat. What do you love about it, and what is it missing? Are you maintaining it? Do you need to start over and build a better boat? Is there a request you need to make of anyone to support you in upgrading your boat so that it better serves you? Give yourself permission to take an inventory of your ownneeds.
 
My mission is to provide you with research-based, experience-driven guidance that gives you a blueprint for building your very best boat. Helping you achieve success in work and life is my daily inspiration. I truly appreciate your friendship and the trust you place in me. And I’m so honored to serve you each and every day!

As we sail into 2019, let’s commit to – together – making it OUR BEST YEAR YET. I look forward to seeing you all very soon!